polarizability Definition
the relative ease with which the electron cloud in an atom, ion, or molecule can be distorted by an electric field.
Using polarizability: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "polarizability" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The polarizability of a molecule is related to its ability to interact with other molecules.
Example
Polarizability plays an important role in determining the properties of materials.
Example
The polarizability of an atom increases as the number of electrons increases.
Summary: polarizability in Brief
The term 'polarizability' [ˌpoʊləraɪzəˈbɪləti] refers to the relative ease with which the electron cloud in an atom, ion, or molecule can be distorted by an electric field. It plays an important role in determining the properties of materials and is related to the ability of a molecule to interact with other molecules.