Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a nonpolar molecule that contains polar bonds?
1
views
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular polarity of XeF_4?
A
XeF_4 is a polar molecule.
B
XeF_4 is ionic.
C
XeF_4 has both polar and nonpolar regions.
D
XeF_4 is a nonpolar molecule.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the molecular geometry of XeF_4. Xenon tetrafluoride (XeF_4) has a central xenon atom surrounded by four fluorine atoms and two lone pairs, resulting in an octahedral electron geometry but a square planar molecular shape.
Determine the polarity of each Xe-F bond. Since fluorine is more electronegative than xenon, each Xe-F bond is polar with a dipole moment pointing from Xe to F.
Analyze the symmetry of the molecule. In the square planar shape, the four polar bonds are arranged symmetrically around the central atom, and the two lone pairs are opposite each other, which causes the bond dipoles to cancel out.
Conclude the overall molecular polarity. Because the individual bond dipoles cancel due to the symmetrical arrangement, the molecule has no net dipole moment and is therefore nonpolar.
Understand why XeF_4 is not ionic or partially polar. The bonding is covalent, and the symmetrical shape prevents any polar regions from dominating, so it is best described as a nonpolar molecule.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Molecular Polarity practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations