determining dipole

[Isabelle Huerta 2I]

Hi,

I was wondering, what factors can be used when considering the magnitude and direction of a dipole moment?

Thanks.

[Miguel Hernandez LEC 3]

There are various different factors to take in consideration when determining the magnitude and direction of a dipole moment. One of the main factors to take into account is electronegativity differences. The larger the electronegativity difference between atoms, the larger the dipole moment's magnitude will be. The direction of the dipole moment is determined by direction of the vector when electronegativities of different bonds are added together. Another factor to take into account is molecular geometry. If bonds are symmetrical, they may cancel out, if they are asymmetrical the dipole moment will not cancel.