Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular polarity of SO2Cl2 (thionyl chloride)?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which phrase best describes a polar molecule in terms of its molecular polarity and distribution of charge?
A
The molecule has a symmetrical shape and an even distribution of charge.
B
The molecule has an uneven distribution of charge, resulting in a dipole moment.
C
The molecule contains only nonpolar covalent bonds and no dipole moment.
D
The molecule has no regions of partial positive or partial negative charge.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that molecular polarity depends on both the polarity of individual bonds and the overall shape of the molecule.
Recall that a polar molecule has an uneven distribution of electron density, which creates regions of partial positive and partial negative charge.
Recognize that this uneven charge distribution leads to a dipole moment, a vector quantity representing the separation of charges.
Note that symmetrical molecules with evenly distributed charge typically have no net dipole moment and are nonpolar.
Conclude that the best description of a polar molecule is one that has an uneven distribution of charge, resulting in a dipole moment.
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