Definitions
- Describing a molecule with both positive and negative charges, but with a net neutral charge. - Referring to a compound that can act as both an acid and a base. - Talking about a chemical species that has both cationic and anionic functional groups.
- Describing a molecule with both positive and negative charges, but with a net neutral charge. - Referring to a molecule with a separation of charges, resulting in a positive and negative end. - Talking about a compound that has both polar and nonpolar regions.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe molecules with both positive and negative charges.
- 2Both words describe compounds with a net neutral charge.
- 3Both words are used in chemistry to describe specific types of molecules or compounds.
What is the difference?
- 1Functionality: Zwitterionic refers to a compound that can act as both an acid and a base, while dipolar refers to a molecule with a separation of charges.
- 2Charge distribution: Zwitterionic molecules have both cationic and anionic functional groups, while dipolar molecules have a positive and negative end.
- 3Polarity: Zwitterionic compounds have both polar and nonpolar regions, while dipolar molecules are inherently polar.
- 4Usage: Zwitterionic is more commonly used in biochemistry and organic chemistry, while dipolar is more commonly used in physical chemistry and materials science.
Remember this!
Zwitterionic and dipolar are both words used in chemistry to describe molecules with both positive and negative charges and a net neutral charge. However, zwitterionic specifically refers to compounds that can act as both an acid and a base and have both cationic and anionic functional groups, while dipolar refers to molecules with a separation of charges and inherent polarity.
