What is polarizability?

Polarizability is a measure of how easily an atom or molecule can be distorted by an electric field. It is a property that describes how the electron cloud of an atom or molecule can be deformed in the presence of an external electric field.

Polarizability is related to the ability of an atom or molecule to form temporary dipoles or induced dipoles when exposed to an electric field. The greater the polarizability of a species, the more it can be distorted by an electric field.

Polarizability is an important factor in determining the physical and chemical properties of molecules. For example, polarizability affects the strength of intermolecular forces, the dielectric constant of a material, and the ability of a molecule to interact with other molecules.

Polarizability is often represented by the symbol α and is typically measured in cubic angstroms (Å^3) or cubic bohrs (a₀^3). The polarizability of an atom or molecule can vary depending on its size, shape, and electronic structure.