How to know if a mulecule is polar or nonpolar

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To determine if a molecule is polar or nonpolar, one must assess the distribution of charge within the molecule. Polar molecules, like water (H2O), have an asymmetrical shape leading to partial charges, while nonpolar molecules, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), are symmetrical and have no charge imbalance. The angle of bonding significantly influences the polarity of a molecule. Resources like Wikipedia provide helpful diagrams and explanations on chemical polarity. Understanding these concepts is essential for identifying molecular characteristics.
transgalactic
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Co_2

h_2o
 
Physics news on Phys.org
it would be easier to read your posts if you used the subscripts and other helpful parts. here's a link:

www.physicsforums.com-misc-howtolatex.pdf[/URL]
 
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what is the general theory??
 
well you find the partial charges and if one side is more charged (i.e H2O) then its a polar molecule
 
If you compare the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide" you will see that CO2 is symmetrical whereas H20 is asymmetrical. This is what leads to the imbalance in charge.
 
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link2110 said:
well since u like wiki so much here's a wiki post talking bout polarity

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chemical_polarity

Well, Wiki was my choice, not the OP's, and I am merely referring to it to show the diagram of the molecules. Even Wiki couldn't screw that up...
 
lol
well i can't explain it better than to say that the angle of the bonding affects the polarity
 

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