Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular polarity of the carbonate ion, CO_3^{2-}?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which of the following best describes the molecular polarity of the chlorite ion, ClO_2^-?
A
ClO_2^- is a nonpolar molecule.
B
ClO_2^- is ionic and therefore neither polar nor nonpolar.
C
ClO_2^- is always nonpolar due to its linear geometry.
D
ClO_2^- is a polar molecule.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Determine the Lewis structure of the chlorite ion (ClO_2^-). Count the total valence electrons from chlorine, oxygen atoms, and the extra electron due to the negative charge.
Step 2: Draw the skeletal structure with chlorine as the central atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. Distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule for each atom, considering resonance structures if necessary.
Step 3: Use the Lewis structure to determine the molecular geometry of ClO_2^- by applying the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory. Identify the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs around the central chlorine atom.
Step 4: Based on the electron geometry and molecular shape, analyze the symmetry of the molecule. If the molecule is asymmetrical or has lone pairs causing an uneven distribution of charge, it will be polar.
Step 5: Conclude that because ClO_2^- has a bent or angular shape due to lone pairs on chlorine, the dipole moments do not cancel out, making the molecule polar.
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