Multiple Choice
Which type of intermolecular force is present in CF_4 (carbon tetrafluoride)?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which of the following best describes the polarity of the molecule CH3CH2CH2CH3 (butane)?
A
It is a nonpolar molecule.
B
It is a polar molecule because of its linear structure.
C
It is a polar molecule due to its C-H bonds.
D
It is a polar molecule because it contains four carbon atoms.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the molecular structure of CH3CH2CH2CH3 (butane), which is a straight-chain alkane consisting of four carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms.
Recall that polarity in molecules arises from differences in electronegativity between atoms and the molecular geometry that leads to an uneven distribution of electron density.
Examine the bonds in butane: the C-H bonds are considered nonpolar because the electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen is very small.
Consider the overall shape of butane, which is roughly linear or tetrahedral around each carbon, but symmetrical enough that any small dipoles cancel out.
Conclude that because butane has mostly nonpolar C-H and C-C bonds and a symmetrical structure, it is best described as a nonpolar molecule.
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