Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the polarity of the molecule BeI2?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which statement best describes the charge distribution and polarity of a CH_4 molecule?
A
CH_4 has a symmetrical charge distribution and is a nonpolar molecule.
B
CH_4 has a symmetrical charge distribution and is a polar molecule.
C
CH_4 has an asymmetrical charge distribution and is a polar molecule.
D
CH_4 has an asymmetrical charge distribution and is a nonpolar molecule.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the molecular geometry of CH_4 (methane). Methane has a central carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms arranged in a tetrahedral shape, which is symmetrical.
Step 2: Understand the concept of electronegativity. Carbon and hydrogen have similar electronegativities, so the C-H bonds are considered to be only slightly polar or essentially nonpolar.
Step 3: Analyze the symmetry of the molecule. Because the molecule is tetrahedral and symmetrical, any small dipole moments in the C-H bonds cancel out due to their symmetrical arrangement.
Step 4: Determine the overall polarity. Since the dipole moments cancel, the molecule has no net dipole moment, making it nonpolar.
Step 5: Conclude that CH_4 has a symmetrical charge distribution and is a nonpolar molecule.
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