QuestionMay 28, 2025

Compare and contrast polar and nonpolar molecules

Compare and contrast polar and nonpolar molecules
Compare and contrast polar and nonpolar molecules

Solution
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Answer

Polar molecules have uneven electron distribution and a dipole moment; nonpolar molecules have even electron distribution and no net dipole moment. Explanation 1. Define Polar Molecules Polar molecules have an uneven distribution of electron density, resulting in a dipole moment. This occurs due to differences in electronegativity between bonded atoms, causing partial positive and negative charges. 2. Define Nonpolar Molecules Nonpolar molecules have an even distribution of electron density, with no net dipole moment. This typically occurs when atoms have similar electronegativities or the molecular geometry cancels out any dipoles. 3. Compare Electronegativity In polar molecules, there is a significant difference in electronegativity between atoms, while in nonpolar molecules, the electronegativity difference is minimal or zero. 4. Compare Molecular Geometry Polar molecules often have asymmetrical shapes that do not cancel out dipole moments, whereas nonpolar molecules usually have symmetrical shapes that allow dipole moments to cancel. 5. Contrast Solubility Polar molecules are generally soluble in polar solvents (like water), while nonpolar molecules are soluble in nonpolar solvents (like oil).

Explanation

1. Define Polar Molecules<br /> Polar molecules have an uneven distribution of electron density, resulting in a dipole moment. This occurs due to differences in electronegativity between bonded atoms, causing partial positive and negative charges.<br /><br />2. Define Nonpolar Molecules<br /> Nonpolar molecules have an even distribution of electron density, with no net dipole moment. This typically occurs when atoms have similar electronegativities or the molecular geometry cancels out any dipoles.<br /><br />3. Compare Electronegativity<br /> In polar molecules, there is a significant difference in electronegativity between atoms, while in nonpolar molecules, the electronegativity difference is minimal or zero.<br /><br />4. Compare Molecular Geometry<br /> Polar molecules often have asymmetrical shapes that do not cancel out dipole moments, whereas nonpolar molecules usually have symmetrical shapes that allow dipole moments to cancel.<br /><br />5. Contrast Solubility<br /> Polar molecules are generally soluble in polar solvents (like water), while nonpolar molecules are soluble in nonpolar solvents (like oil).
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