Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about nonpolar molecules is true?
A
Nonpolar molecules cannot participate in London dispersion forces.
B
Nonpolar molecules have an even distribution of electron density and do not possess a permanent dipole moment.
C
Nonpolar molecules always contain only nonmetal atoms.
D
Nonpolar molecules are always gases at room temperature.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand what a nonpolar molecule is. Nonpolar molecules have an even distribution of electron density, meaning the electrons are shared equally between atoms, resulting in no permanent dipole moment.
Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'Nonpolar molecules cannot participate in London dispersion forces.' This is false because London dispersion forces are present in all molecules, including nonpolar ones, due to temporary fluctuations in electron density.
Step 3: Consider the second statement: 'Nonpolar molecules have an even distribution of electron density and do not possess a permanent dipole moment.' This aligns with the definition of nonpolar molecules and is true.
Step 4: Evaluate the third statement: 'Nonpolar molecules always contain only nonmetal atoms.' This is incorrect because polarity depends on the distribution of electrons, not just the types of atoms; some nonpolar molecules can contain metals or metalloids in certain contexts.
Step 5: Review the fourth statement: 'Nonpolar molecules are always gases at room temperature.' This is false because nonpolar molecules can be solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature depending on their molecular size and intermolecular forces.