Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes what it means for a molecule to be polar?
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 an asymmetrical charge distribution and is a nonpolar molecule.
B
CH_4 has a symmetrical charge distribution and is a nonpolar molecule.
C
CH_4 has an asymmetrical charge distribution and is a polar molecule.
D
CH_4 has a symmetrical charge distribution and is a polar 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.
Step 2: Understand the concept of symmetry in molecules. A symmetrical charge distribution means that the dipole moments of the bonds cancel each other out due to the molecule's shape.
Step 3: Analyze the polarity of the C-H bonds. Although C-H bonds have a slight difference in electronegativity, the bonds are considered essentially nonpolar or only slightly polar.
Step 4: Combine the bond polarities with the molecular geometry. Because the molecule is tetrahedral and symmetrical, the individual bond dipoles cancel out, resulting in no net dipole moment.
Step 5: Conclude that CH_4 has a symmetrical charge distribution and is a nonpolar molecule due to its tetrahedral geometry and the cancellation of bond dipoles.
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