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QuestionChemistry

Is BeCl^2 polar or nonpolar?
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified LaTeX formatting guidelines:

Step 2:
: Determine the Molecular Geometry

- Electron geometry follows $$AX_{2}$$ molecular geometry type
- BeCl^2 has a linear molecular geometry - Central beryllium (Be) atom is bonded to two chlorine (Cl) atoms

Step 3:
: Analyze Electronegativity Differences

- Electronegativity difference: $$3.16 - 1.57 = 1.59
- Beryllium (Be) electronegativity: 1.57 - Chlorine (Cl) electronegativity: 3.16 - This indicates polar bonds between Be and Cl

Step 4:
: Examine Molecular Symmetry

- In a linear molecule, the two Be-Cl bonds are symmetrically opposite - The bond dipoles are equal in magnitude but point in opposite directions - These dipoles cancel each other out

Step 5:
: Determine Polarity

- Despite polar bonds, the overall molecular symmetry results in zero net dipole moment - The bond dipoles completely cancel each other

Final Answer

BeCl^2 is a NONPOLAR molecule due to its linear symmetry and canceling bond dipoles.