Multiple Choice
Why do hydrogen and oxygen form polar covalent bonds within water molecules?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
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How does a polar covalent bond differ from a nonpolar covalent bond?
A
A polar covalent bond results in a complete charge separation, while a nonpolar covalent bond does not.
B
A polar covalent bond involves unequal sharing of electrons, while a nonpolar covalent bond involves equal sharing of electrons.
C
A polar covalent bond forms between metals, while a nonpolar covalent bond forms between nonmetals.
D
A polar covalent bond involves the transfer of electrons, while a nonpolar covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of covalent bonds: Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms. These bonds can be classified as polar or nonpolar based on how the electrons are shared.
Define a nonpolar covalent bond: In a nonpolar covalent bond, the electrons are shared equally between the two atoms. This typically occurs when the atoms involved have similar electronegativities.
Define a polar covalent bond: In a polar covalent bond, the electrons are shared unequally. This happens when one atom has a higher electronegativity than the other, causing a partial charge separation.
Clarify the difference in electron sharing: The key difference is that polar covalent bonds have unequal sharing of electrons due to differences in electronegativity, while nonpolar covalent bonds have equal sharing.
Relate to molecular properties: The unequal sharing in polar covalent bonds leads to a dipole moment, which can affect the molecule's physical properties, such as solubility and boiling point.
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