Textbook Question
Dichloroethylene (C2H2Cl2) has three forms (isomers), each of which is a different substance. (c) How many isomeric forms can chloroethylene, C2H3Cl, have? Would they be expected to have dipole moments?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Why is water considered a polar molecule?
A
Because it has a bent shape and an unequal distribution of electrons.
B
Because it has a linear shape with equal distribution of charge.
C
Because it is composed of nonpolar covalent bonds.
D
Because it has a symmetrical tetrahedral shape.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of polarity: A molecule is polar if it has a net dipole moment, which occurs due to an unequal distribution of electrons between atoms in a molecule.
Examine the molecular geometry of water: Water (H₂O) has a bent shape due to the two lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom, which repel the hydrogen atoms.
Consider the electronegativity difference: Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts the shared electrons more strongly, creating a partial negative charge on the oxygen and a partial positive charge on the hydrogens.
Analyze the dipole moment: The bent shape of water means that the dipole moments do not cancel out, resulting in a net dipole moment, making water a polar molecule.
Compare with other options: Linear or symmetrical shapes with equal charge distribution, or nonpolar covalent bonds, would not result in a polar molecule, which is why water's bent shape and unequal electron distribution make it polar.
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