dipole (physics)

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Uneven distribution of magnetic or electrical characteristics within a molecule or substance so that it behaves as though it possesses two equal but opposite poles or charges, a finite distance apart.

The uneven distribution of electrons within a molecule composed of atoms of different electronegativities may result in an apparent concentration of electrons towards one end of the molecule and a deficiency towards the other, so that it forms a dipole consisting of apparently separated but equal positive and negative charges. The product of one charge and the distance between them is the dipole moment. A bar magnet has a magnetic dipole and behaves as though its magnetism were concentrated in separate north and south magnetic poles.

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