Question

Question #242d1

Answer 1

In terms of electrostatic charge, which ion should give the greater interaction?

Explanation:

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Water is a polar molecule, with regions of partial negative charge. If we were to confine out discussion to electrostatics only, the greater degree of interaction with the dication can be rationalized.

Of course, there are chemical considerations also. `Mg^(2+)` is a smaller and more polarizing ion than `Na^+`. Given this, the ion-dipole bond formed between the cation and the water dipole should be stronger, and the metrics reflect this.