Q. 6.142 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Predict the shape and polarity of each of the following molecules, which have polar covalent bonds: $(6.8 , 6.9)$

a. A central atom with four identical bonded atoms and no lone pairs.

b. A central atom with four bonded atoms that are not identical and no lone pairs.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

a. The shape of the molecule is tetrahedral and the molecule is non-polar.  

b.  The shape of the molecule is tetrahedral and the molecule is polar. 

Part (a) step 1: Given Information

We need to predict the polarity and the shape of the molecules.

Part (a) step 2: Explanation

Four surrounding atoms then it has a Tetrahedral shape for minimum repulsion. Identical group therefore it's non-polar due to symmetry.

Part (b) step 1: Given Information

We need to predict the polarity and the shape of the molecules.

Part (b) step 2: Explanation

Four surrounding atoms then it has a Tetrahedral shape for minimum repulsion of electron pair. Non Identical atoms then the molecule is polar.