Question 1

Multiple choiceEasy1 mark

Four molecules are compared to assess how bond polarity and molecular geometry affect molecular polarity. Which molecule has a net dipole moment?

Show answer and explanation

Answer: A. A molecule has a net dipole when its bond dipoles do not cancel. H2_2O is bent, so its two O–H bond dipoles do not cancel.

B: Treats polar C=O bonds as sufficient for molecular polarity, overlooking cancellation in linear CO2_2 C: Treats polar B–F bonds as sufficient, overlooking cancellation in trigonal-planar BF3_3 D: Treats polar C–Cl bonds as sufficient, overlooking cancellation in tetrahedral CCl4_4

Remember: molecular polarity depends on both bond polarity and geometry.

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