The main difference between a zwitterion and a dipole lies in the distribution of electric charges within the molecule and the nature of the charges involved.
- Zwitterion: A zwitterion is a neutral molecule that contains an equal number of positively and negatively charged functional groups, resulting in a net charge of zero. Zwitterions are sometimes referred to as "inner salts". Examples of zwitterions include amino acids, which have both a positive amine group and a negative carboxylate group. Zwitterions have an isoelectric point (pI), which is the pH value at which the charge in the molecules is neutral.
- Dipole: A dipole refers to the presence of positive and negative charged ends, or north and south magnetic poles, within a molecule or system. However, a dipole does not necessarily carry charges but has differences in electric potential at different positions. Dipolar compounds are not classified as zwitterions.
In summary, a zwitterion is a neutral molecule with equal numbers of positive and negative charges, while a dipole refers to the presence of positive and negative charged ends or differences in electric potential within a molecule or system.
Comparative Table: Zwitterion vs Dipole
The main difference between a zwitterion and a dipole lies in their charges and molecular structure. Here is a table comparing the two:
| Property | Zwitterion | Dipole |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A zwitterion is a neutral molecule containing an equal number of positive and negative charged functional groups, resulting in a net formal charge of zero. | A dipole refers to the presence of positive and negative charged ends or north and south magnetic poles in a molecule or system. |
| Charge | Contains both positive and negative charges in the same molecule, but the net charge is zero. | Does not necessarily carry charges, but has differences in electric potential or magnetic poles. |
| Examples | Amino acids, sulfamic acid molecules, anthranilic acid. | Electric fields, magnetic fields. |
| Common Forms | Zwitterions are commonly found in amino acids, which have both a positive ammonium or amino group and a negative carboxylate group. | Dipoles are present in various molecules and systems, such as electric fields and magnetic fields. |
In summary, a zwitterion is a neutral molecule with both positive and negative charges, while a dipole refers to the presence of positive and negative charged ends or magnetic poles. Zwitterions are commonly found in amino acids, while dipoles are present in various molecules and systems.
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- Electric Dipole vs Magnetic Dipole
- Dipole Dipole Interactions vs Hydrogen Bonding
- Bond Dipole vs Molecular Dipole
- Polar vs Dipolar Molecules
- Bond Moment vs Dipole Moment
- Dipole Dipole vs Dispersion
- Induced Dipole vs Permanent Dipole
- Dipole-Dipole vs London Dispersion Forces
- Electronegativity vs Polarity
- Electropositive vs Electronegative
- Nernst Potential vs Zeta Potential
- Zeta Potential vs Point of Zero Charge
- E vs Z Isomers
- Ionization vs Dissociation
- Positive vs Negative Zeta Potential
- Ionic vs Electrostatic Interactions
- Hydronium Ion vs Hydrogen Ion