Which of these substances is nonpolar? A) H₂O B) SO₂ C) HF D) CCl₄ E) CH₃F

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A molecule is nonpolar if it has a symmetrical shape or if the electronegativity difference between the atoms is very low or zero. In this case, CCl4 (choice D) is nonpolar because the tetrahedral geometry results in a symmetrical distribution of electron density around the carbon atom, and the electronegativity difference between carbon and chlorine is very low. The other molecules have polar bonds due to differences in electronegativity and/or asymmetrical molecular geometries.

Which of These Substances Is Nonpolar