Practice question · Multiple choice
Every C=O bond in is strongly polar, yet the molecule has no dipole moment at all. Why does bond polarity not settle molecular polarity?
Hints
- Draw the two bond dipoles as arrows and add them.
- Now do the same for water, whose bonds meet at 104.5°.
Show the answer
C. Because dipoles are vectors, and 's cancel by symmetry
Why
Shape decides. This is why does not dissolve well in water and , which is bent, does, the same polar bonds with a different geometry give opposite results.
Practise Bonding and molecular geometry
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