Skip to main content

How polarity makes water behave strangely - Christina Kleinberg

1,110,625 Views

60,119 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Water is both essential and unique. Many of its particular qualities stem from the fact that it consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen, therefore creating an unequal sharing of electrons. From fish in frozen lakes to ice floating on water, Christina Kleinberg describes the effects of polarity.

Table salt (NaCl) is an ionic compound. As with other ionic compounds, NaCl dissolves in water. When placed in water, Na and Cl form ions. Na has a positive charge and Cl has a negative charge. Describe how water molecules interact with these ions.

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Director Alan Foreman
  • Educator Christina Kleinberg
  • Narrator Christina Kleinberg

More from Actions and Reactions