Multiple Choice
Which phrase best describes a molecule of CH_4 in terms of molecular polarity and distribution of charge?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which of the following best describes the polarity of the molecule CH3OH (methanol)?
A
CH3OH is polar only in the solid state.
B
CH3OH is a polar molecule due to the presence of a hydroxyl group.
C
CH3OH is nonpolar because its molecular geometry is symmetrical.
D
CH3OH is a nonpolar molecule because all its bonds are nonpolar.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the molecular structure of CH3OH (methanol). It consists of a methyl group (CH3) attached to a hydroxyl group (OH).
Recognize that the hydroxyl group (OH) contains an oxygen atom bonded to hydrogen, which is highly electronegative, creating a polar O-H bond.
Consider the overall molecular geometry: the molecule is not symmetrical because the polar O-H bond creates an uneven distribution of electron density.
Understand that polarity of a molecule depends on both the polarity of individual bonds and the shape of the molecule, which affects how bond dipoles add up.
Conclude that due to the polar O-H bond and the asymmetrical shape, CH3OH is a polar molecule regardless of its physical state.
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