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SNAP--> Symmetrical Nonpolar Asymmetrical Polar Molecular polarity is determined by the shape and distribution of charge (polar bonds) in the molecule. To make your life easier, just look the atoms. If the atoms in the molecule are symmetrical, the charges are balanced by each other. The molecules are considered to be nonpolar. However, if the molecule is asymmetrical, it is considered to be polar. So if the atoms cause the molecule to be lopsided, it is polar. If the distribution of atoms is balanced, it is nonpolar. Symmetrical is Nonpolar or Asymmetrical is Polar
Dipole moment is another way of saying the molecule is polar and which side is slightly positive and negative (indicated by the arrow).
***NOTE Water is POLAR, due to an asymmetrical distribution of charge
AP Chemistry- You have to word this very differently. You will not get credit for symmetrical or asymmetrical. Use this wording :"The polar bonds are balanced." = non-polar molecules "The polar bonds are not balanced." = polar molecule |
