Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the polarity of the molecule H2CO3 (carbonic acid)?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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If you want a molecule that is highly polar, look for one that contains:
A
a symmetrical arrangement of identical atoms
B
atoms with similar atomic radii
C
atoms with large differences in electronegativity
D
only nonpolar covalent bonds
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that molecular polarity depends on both the polarity of individual bonds and the overall molecular geometry.
Recall that a polar bond occurs when there is a significant difference in electronegativity between the two atoms involved, causing an uneven distribution of electron density.
Recognize that a symmetrical arrangement of identical atoms usually leads to nonpolar molecules because the bond dipoles cancel out.
Note that atoms with similar atomic radii do not necessarily imply polarity; what matters more is the difference in electronegativity.
Conclude that molecules with atoms having large differences in electronegativity tend to have polar bonds, making the molecule highly polar if the geometry does not cancel these dipoles.
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