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QuestionChemistry

Determine whether the following molecules are polar or nonpolar using the Lewis structures. a. Ammonia, NH₃ b. Difluoromethane, CH₂F₂
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step, focusing on molecular polarity determination.

Step 2:
: Understand Molecular Polarity Criteria

Molecular polarity depends on: - Molecular geometry - Electronegativity differences between atoms - Symmetry of electron distribution

Step 3:
: Analyze Ammonia (NH₃)

\text{NH}_3 \text{ is POLAR}
Lewis Structure Analysis: - Central nitrogen atom - Three hydrogen atoms bonded - One lone pair of electrons on nitrogen Molecular Geometry: Electronegativity: - Nitrogen electronegativity: 3.04 - Hydrogen electronegativity: 2.20 - Difference creates polar bonds Polarity Assessment: - Asymmetric electron distribution - Net dipole moment exists - Lone pair creates uneven charge distribution Conclusion for NH₃:

Step 4:
: Analyze Difluoromethane (CH₂F₂)

\text{CH}_2\text{F}_2 \text{ is POLAR}
Lewis Structure Analysis: - Central carbon atom - Two fluorine atoms - Two hydrogen atoms Molecular Geometry: Electronegativity: - Carbon electronegativity: 2.55 - Fluorine electronegativity: 3.98 - Hydrogen electronegativity: 2.20 - Significant differences in bond electronegativities Polarity Assessment: - Asymmetric distribution of electronegative fluorine atoms - Unequal bond dipoles - Net dipole moment exists Conclusion for CH₂F₂:

Final Answer

a. NH₃: Polar molecule b. CH₂F₂: Polar molecule