Some Molecular Charges can be Localized.


Small symmetrical molecules do not have localized charge, since the electrons are equally distributed around the outside of the molecule.

Larger molecules, like hemoglobin, can have different regions carrying different charges.

Let's take an extreme example: some molecules like lipids, or fats, that have a structure with a "head" and a "tail", can have a positively charged end and a negatively charged end.

Using the same rules of positive and negative attractions and repulsions, molecules come together. When one molecule meets another, the charges are recalculated for the whole new complex, and the shape of at least one of the molecules is likely to change! The stronger and more localized the charge, the more likely the change.

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Review what are biopolymers, the molecules of life.

Water molecules are very, very charged! What happens when a charged (non-water) molecule meets a water molecule?



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