Is Nitrate Polar or Non-Polar? Understanding Molecular Properties and Solubility

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Nitrate is a trigonal planar molecule that exhibits resonance, which distributes its negative charge across the structure, leading to a debate about its polarity. While some argue it is non-polar due to this symmetry and charge distribution, others point to its solubility in water as an indicator of polarity. The discussion highlights that solubility in water is influenced by factors such as hydrogen bonding and entropy, which contribute to the thermodynamic favorability of dissolution. The presence of charged ions, like Na+, also plays a role in solubility, despite not being polar in the traditional sense. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the complexity of determining polarity and solubility in molecular chemistry.
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Is nitrate a polar or non-polar molecule? I understand that it has a trigonal planer shape (and therefore it has symmetry) but should we also consider the double bond (do multiple bonds destroy symmetry)? I assume it would be polar because it is SOLUBLE in WATER, however, after viewing many links online, many people say it is non-polar
 
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Resonance distributes the negative charge, so it's not constrained to any oxygen in particular. This makes the entire outside negative, so there's no polarity.
 
Solubility

Oh okay, but why is it soluble in water?
 
It's not polar, but it's still charged. Why are singular ions soluble in water? Na+ on its own isn't polar, but it's very soluble.
 
hydrogen bonding and entropy effects contribute to the Gibbs free energy of the process of dissolution. Its thermodynamically favorable for it to dissolve, and there is also a kinetic pathway available. What more could one want ? :)
 

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