Polar & Non-Polar

Molecules
Introduction
• Polar molecules: A polar molecule is one in which the electrons are
not evenly distributed around the molecule, resulting in an uneven
distribution of electric charge.
• Non-Polar molecules: A nonpolar molecule is one in which the
electrons are evenly distributed, resulting in no significant separation
of electric charge.
Molecular Structure
1.Atoms: Building Blocks
1. Nucleus: Protons (+) and Neutrons (no charge)
2. Electrons (-) orbit nucleus
3. Atomic number defines element
2.Chemical Bonds: Holding Together
1. Covalent Bonds:
1. Shared electrons
2. Types: Single, Double, Triple
2. Ionic Bonds:
1. Electron transfer
2. Form ions: Cations (+) and Anions (-)
3. Metallic Bonds:
1. In metals
2. Shared electron sea
3.Molecular Shapes: 3D Arrangement
1. Electron pairs' arrangement
2. VSEPR Theory predicts shapes
4.Functional Groups (Organic Chem)
1. Specific atom arrangements
2. Define reactivity, properties
Polar molecules
1.Definition
1. Polar molecules have uneven electron distribution
2. Result of differing electronegativities between atoms
2.Polar Covalent Bonds
1. Electronegativity difference creates partial charges (δ+ and δ-)
2. Oxygen and hydrogen in water (H2O) create a polar bond
3.Molecular Dipole
1. Unequal charge distribution across molecule
2. Creates positive (δ+) and negative (δ-) ends
4.Examples
1. Water (H2O): Oxygen pulls electrons more strongly, giving it a δ-
2. Ammonia (NH3): Nitrogen has higher electronegativity than hydrogen
5.Properties
1. Higher boiling/melting points due to stronger intermolecular forces
2. Dissolves well in other polar substances (like dissolves like)
Non – Polar molecules
1.Definition
1. Nonpolar molecules have even electron distribution
2. Atoms with similar or identical electronegativities
2.Covalent Bonds
1. Equal sharing of electrons
2. No significant partial charges
3.Lack of Dipole
1. No distinct positive (δ+) or negative (δ-) ends
4.Examples
1. Oxygen gas (O2): Both oxygen atoms share electrons equally
2. Methane (CH4): Carbon and hydrogen atoms have similar electronegativities
5.Properties
1. Lower boiling/melting points due to weaker intermolecular forces
2. Dissolves well in other nonpolar substances
Examples in Real Life
1.Water Molecule (H2O)
1. Classic polar molecule
2. Oxygen (O) is more electronegative than hydrogen (H)
3. Creates partial positive (δ+) and negative (δ-) charges
2.Ice Melting
1. Hydrogen bonds between water molecules
2. Breaking these bonds requires energy, leading to melting
3.Cooking Oil and Water
1. Oil is nonpolar, water is polar
2. Immiscible due to differences in polarity
4.Salt Dissolving in Water
1. Sodium chloride (NaCl) ionizes into Na+ and Cl- ions
2. Water's polarity attracts and separates ions
5.Adhesive Bandages
1. Polar adhesive sticks to skin (polar), while nonpolar pad repels water
6.Soap and Grease Removal
1. Soap's polar end interacts with water, nonpolar end binds to grease
2. Helps remove nonpolar substances from surfaces
In conclusion, understanding molecular polarity is paramount as it
intricately shapes the behavior of substances. The division of charge
within molecules due to differences in electronegativity leads to diverse
effects, ranging from stronger intermolecular forces to distinctive
solubility patterns. This concept finds relevance in everyday
experiences, from water's unique properties to the interactions of
cleaning agents. Rooted in fundamental chemistry, molecular polarity
serves as a lens through which we comprehend various phenomena and
drive innovations in multiple fields. As research progresses, it continues
to uncover new layers of understanding, underscoring its enduring
importance in both scientific exploration and practical applications.