Which of the following compounds has a zero dipole moment based on VSEPR theory? or explain your reasoning] TeClo TeCl4

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### Understanding Dipole Moments with VSEPR Theory

**Question:**
Which of the following compounds has a *zero* dipole moment based on VSEPR theory? *Explain your reasoning.*

- TeCl₆
- TeCl₄

**Explanation:**

To determine which compound has a zero dipole moment, we need to consider the molecular geometry of each compound using VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory.

1. **TeCl₆ (Tellurium Hexachloride):**
   - **Molecular Geometry:** Octahedral
   - **Reasoning:** In an octahedral geometry, the dipoles cancel each other out due to the symmetric distribution of the chlorine atoms around the central tellurium atom. This results in a net dipole moment of zero.

2. **TeCl₄ (Tellurium Tetrachloride):**
   - **Molecular Geometry:** Seesaw
   - **Reasoning:** In a seesaw shape, there is an asymmetrical distribution of chlorine atoms, resulting in a non-zero dipole moment due to the unequal distribution of charge.

**Conclusion:**
TeCl₆ has a zero dipole moment due to its symmetrical octahedral structure, whereas TeCl₄ does not have a zero dipole moment because of its asymmetrical seesaw shape.
Transcribed Image Text:### Understanding Dipole Moments with VSEPR Theory **Question:** Which of the following compounds has a *zero* dipole moment based on VSEPR theory? *Explain your reasoning.* - TeCl₆ - TeCl₄ **Explanation:** To determine which compound has a zero dipole moment, we need to consider the molecular geometry of each compound using VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory. 1. **TeCl₆ (Tellurium Hexachloride):** - **Molecular Geometry:** Octahedral - **Reasoning:** In an octahedral geometry, the dipoles cancel each other out due to the symmetric distribution of the chlorine atoms around the central tellurium atom. This results in a net dipole moment of zero. 2. **TeCl₄ (Tellurium Tetrachloride):** - **Molecular Geometry:** Seesaw - **Reasoning:** In a seesaw shape, there is an asymmetrical distribution of chlorine atoms, resulting in a non-zero dipole moment due to the unequal distribution of charge. **Conclusion:** TeCl₆ has a zero dipole moment due to its symmetrical octahedral structure, whereas TeCl₄ does not have a zero dipole moment because of its asymmetrical seesaw shape.
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