Quick! Whats an easy way to remember Polar and NON polar molecules?

Question

To remember how to identify polar and NON polar molecules. thanks!!!

Answer 1

If the molecule has O,N,F,or Cl then most likely it is polar. Look at the periodic chart and remember that the elements in the upper right are the most electronegative, so they want electrons. When these elements are in a compound with other atoms such as C and H they will pull electrons closer making a dipole moment.

The only real trick is looking at the geometry of the molecule, if there is more than one electronegative atom pulling in opposite directions then the dipole is canceld. Such as O=C=O which is liniar.

Look at an electronegativity chart you will see what I mean

Answer 2

Polar molecules are asymmetrical, while nonpolar molecules are completely symmetrical.
Make sure to take into consideration lone electron pairs and bond angles when determining whether a molecule is polar or not.

Answer 3

Polar molecules don't share electrons equally. Non-polar share electrons. You basically have to look at electronegativity.

Answer 4

know what differentiates polar molecules from non-polar molecules!