polarity of ClF3

[melissa_dis4K]

Is it safe to assume that because all the atoms besides the central atom of ClF3 is polar because they are the same element or should the charges always be taken into consideration when determining polarity?

[Patrick Cai 1L]

To fully understand the polarity of the CIF₃ molecule, we would have to realize the asymmetric distribution of atoms around the central carbon, as well as the differences in dipole moment noted between the C-I bond and the C-F bonds. Combining these two aspects, there is a net dipole in the direction of the iodine atom, making this molecule polar. Partial charges should be noted but the actual charge overall the molecule is 0, and if all the atoms around the central carbon were of the same polarity (ie electronegativity value), they would result in a nonpolar molecule (for instance CF₄).