Chapter 8, Problem 135A

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

Whether a molecule having characteristic “a solid at room temperature” is polar or nonpolar is to be analyzed.

Concept introduction:

The asymmetric structure and presence of polar covalent bonds confirm that the molecule is polar in nature. The molecule having some dipole moment is termed as a polar molecule and the molecule with no dipole moment or zero dipole moment is identified as a nonpolar molecule.

Answer to Problem 135A

The solid molecule at room temperature is polar.

Explanation of Solution

The molecules are made of two or more atoms via a polar covalent bond. In the solid molecule, the constituent particles attract each other via the London dispersion force which is strong but not an ionic bond. Therefore, a solid molecule at room temperature is polar covalent.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

Whether a molecule having characteristic “a gas at room temperature” is polar or nonpolar is to be analyzed.

Concept introduction:

The asymmetric structure and presence of polar covalent bonds confirm that the molecule is polar in nature. The molecule having some dipole moment is termed as a polar molecule and the molecule with no dipole moment or zero dipole moment is identified as a nonpolar molecule.

Answer to Problem 135A

The gas molecule at room temperature is nonpolar.

Explanation of Solution

The molecules are made of two or more atoms via a polar covalent bond. In the gas molecule, the constituent particles attract each other via a very weak force of attraction. In gas molecules, the bonds are polar but the entire molecule is not one side more negative or positive. Therefore, the gas molecule at room temperature is nonpolar.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

Whether a molecule having characteristic “attracted to an electric current” is polar or nonpolar is to be analyzed.

Concept introduction:

The asymmetric structure and presence of polar covalent bonds confirm that the molecule is polar in nature. The molecule having some dipole moment is termed as a polar molecule and the molecule with no dipole moment or zero dipole moment is identified as a nonpolar molecule.

Answer to Problem 135A

A molecule that attracts an electric current is polar in nature.

Explanation of Solution

If a molecule attracts an electric current, it must have a positive and negative polar end. Therefore, the distribution of charge is not equal in the molecule. Therefore, the molecule which attracts an electric current is polar in nature.