HW# 2E.26

[Jessica Tejero 3L]

Draw the Lewis structure and predict whether each of the
following molecules is polar or nonpolar: (a) H2Se; (b) AsF5;
(c) SiO2; (d) NF3.

Any easy rules to remember to find out if a molecule is polar or nonpolar?

[405318478]

If a molecule is polar, this is an uneven charge distribution. Meaning, the molecule does not have an even distribution of charges. A quick trick is to look at the actual structure of the molecule, looking for symmetry. Symmetric molecules tend to be non-polar. However, the most sure way is to look at electronegativity differences.

[Anna Chen 1K]

Yes, I agree that the symmetry of a lewis structure can sometimes help in determining polarity, but the most accurate way would be to evaluate electronegativity differences.