Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified LaTeX formatting guidelines:
Step 2:: Understand the Molecular Structure
- CH₂O (formaldehyde) has a central carbon atom - Two hydrogen atoms are attached to the carbon - An oxygen atom is double-bonded to the carbon
Step 3:: Determine Electronegativity Values
- Oxygen (O): $$3.44$$ on the Pauling scale
- Hydrogen (H): 2.20 on the Pauling scale
Step 4:: Analyze Bond Polarity
- C=O bond: $$\Delta\text{electronegativity} = |2.55 - 3.44| = 0.89
- Slightly polar, with oxygen side being slightly negative - Significantly polar, with oxygen being more electronegative
Step 5:: Examine Molecular Geometry
- Molecular geometry is trigonal planar - Oxygen pulls electron density away from carbon
Step 6:: Determine Net Dipole Moment
- Asymmetric distribution of electron density - C-H bond dipoles do not completely cancel - Strong C=O bond dipole contributes significantly
Final Answer
CH₂O is POLAR due to its asymmetric electron distribution and significant differences in electronegativity between atoms.
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