Is CO2 non-polar?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether carbon dioxide (CO2) is a non-polar molecule. To determine this, we need to consider its molecular geometry and the electronegativity of its constituent atoms.
Answer
Non-polar
CO2 is a non-polar molecule due to its linear geometry which cancels out the dipole moments of the individual polar bonds.
Answer for screen readers
CO2 is a non-polar molecule due to its linear geometry which cancels out the dipole moments of the individual polar bonds.
More Information
The linear symmetry of the CO2 molecule ensures that the dipole moments of the polar C=O bonds cancel out, resulting in an overall non-polar molecule.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming that a molecule with polar bonds must be polar; the overall shape and symmetry must also be considered.
Sources
- Is Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Polar Or Nonpolar? - ScienceABC - scienceabc.com
- Why is carbon dioxide a non polar molecule, even though the C O bonds are polar? - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- 8.8: Bond and Molecular Polarity - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
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