The dipole moment of a molecule of carbon tetrachloride is zero because
Correct answer: B. the four polar bonds are arranged symmetrically so their dipoles cancel
- A. the carbon to chlorine bonds are non polar
- B. the four polar bonds are arranged symmetrically so their dipoles cancel
- C. chlorine and carbon have the same electronegativity
- D. the molecule is planar
Explanation
Each bond carries a substantial dipole, but the tetrahedral symmetry means the four vectors sum to zero, leaving the molecule non polar overall. Replacing one chlorine with hydrogen destroys the symmetry and gives chloroform a measurable dipole moment. Shape therefore matters as much as bond polarity in deciding whether a molecule is polar.
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About Dipole Moment
Dipole moment measures the separation of positive and negative charge in a bond or molecule, with magnitude related to charge and distance, μ = q r. Questions distinguish polar bonds from polar molecules by considering bond direction, molecular geometry and whether individual bond moments cancel through symmetry.
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