Definitions
- Describing a substance that repels water or does not dissolve in water. - Referring to a molecule that lacks polar groups and is not attracted to water. - Talking about a material that resists wetting or adhesion by water.
- Describing a molecule that has no separation of charge and no positive or negative poles. - Referring to a substance that does not dissolve in water or other polar solvents. - Talking about a chemical bond that involves equal sharing of electrons between atoms.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe substances that do not interact with water.
- 2Both words are used in chemistry to describe molecules and compounds.
- 3Both words are important in understanding the properties of materials and chemicals.
What is the difference?
- 1Definition: Hydrophobic specifically refers to substances that repel water, while nonpolar refers to substances that lack separation of charge.
- 2Usage: Hydrophobic is more commonly used in biology and biochemistry, while nonpolar is more commonly used in chemistry and physics.
- 3Scope: Hydrophobic can refer to both substances and molecules, while nonpolar mainly describes molecules and chemical bonds.
- 4Connotation: Hydrophobic can have a negative connotation, implying a fear or aversion to water, while nonpolar is neutral and descriptive.
Remember this!
Hydrophobic and nonpolar are similar in that they both describe substances that do not interact with water. However, hydrophobic specifically refers to substances that repel water, while nonpolar refers to substances that lack separation of charge. Hydrophobic is more commonly used in biology and biochemistry, while nonpolar is more commonly used in chemistry and physics.
