What is an oscillating molecular dipole defined as?

In summary, an oscillating dipole of a molecule can refer to both the periodic motion of the atoms in the molecule and the oscillations in electron density. This is because while the motion of the nuclei occurs in the infrared frequency range, the oscillation of the electronic charge density occurs in the visible and ultraviolet spectrum, resulting in absorption lines or bands in the respective IR and UV-Vis spectra.
  • #1
apeters
Is an oscillating dipole of a molecule the periodic motion of the atoms in the molecule (the oscillating back and forth of a more negatively charged atom and more positively charged atom), or, is an oscillating molecular dipole just oscillations in electron density? I just can't get a clear answer on this.
 
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  • #2
Both. While the motion of the nuclei is in the frequency range of infrared light, the oscillation of the electronic charge density occurs at frequencies in the visible and ultraviolet part of the spectrum. Hence they lead to absorption lines or bands in the respective IR and UV-Vis spectra.
 
  • #3
Both. While the motion of the nuclei is in the frequency range of infrared light, the oscillation of the electronic charge density occurs at frequencies in the visible and ultraviolet part of the spectrum. Hence they lead to absorption lines or bands in the respective IR and UV-Vis spectra.
 

Related to What is an oscillating molecular dipole defined as?

1. What is an oscillating molecular dipole?

An oscillating molecular dipole refers to the movement of a molecule's electric charge, creating a dipole moment that alternates in direction over time. This oscillation can occur due to the vibration or rotation of a molecule, resulting in a constantly changing electric field.

2. How is an oscillating molecular dipole defined?

An oscillating molecular dipole is typically defined as a dipole moment with both magnitude and direction that changes over time due to the movement of a molecule's electric charge. This definition is often used in the study of molecular physics and chemistry.

3. What is the role of an oscillating molecular dipole in chemistry?

In chemistry, an oscillating molecular dipole is important because it affects a molecule's interactions with other molecules. For example, it can influence the strength of intermolecular forces and the absorption of electromagnetic radiation.

4. How is an oscillating molecular dipole measured?

The magnitude of an oscillating molecular dipole can be measured using spectroscopic techniques, such as infrared or microwave spectroscopy. These techniques involve analyzing the absorption or emission of radiation by the molecule, which is affected by the molecule's electric dipole moment.

5. Can an oscillating molecular dipole be induced?

Yes, an oscillating molecular dipole can be induced in a molecule through various methods, such as applying an external electric field or subjecting the molecule to a change in temperature or pressure. This can result in changes in the molecule's dipole moment, leading to different chemical and physical properties.

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