Which Are Overall Nonpolar Molecules?

Which Are Overall Nonpolar Molecules?

Nonpolar molecules are molecules that have an equal distribution of charge across the molecule, meaning that the molecule is electrically neutral and has no positive or negative end. This is because the electronegativity difference between the atoms in the molecule is very small or nonexistent, resulting in no partial charges on any of the atoms in the molecule. Nonpolar molecules are typically insoluble in water, and they are more likely to dissolve in nonpolar solvents like oil, benzene, or carbon tetrachloride. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common nonpolar molecules.

1. Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are compounds that consist of carbon and hydrogen atoms only. They are nonpolar because the electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen is very small, and therefore the electrons are evenly distributed throughout the molecule. Examples of hydrocarbons include methane, ethane, propane, and butane, which are all gases at room temperature.

2. Carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide is a nonpolar molecule that consists of two oxygen atoms and one carbon atom. The carbon atom shares electrons with each of the oxygen atoms, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Carbon dioxide is a common gas found in the atmosphere, and it is also a byproduct of cellular respiration.

3. Nitrogen gas

Nitrogen gas is a nonpolar molecule that consists of two nitrogen atoms. The electronegativity difference between the two nitrogen atoms is very small, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Nitrogen gas is the most abundant gas in the Earth's atmosphere, making up about 78% of the air we breathe.

4. Benzene

Benzene is a nonpolar molecule that consists of six carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms arranged in a hexagonal ring. The electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen is very small, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Benzene is a common organic solvent and is used in the production of many chemicals, including plastics, resins, and synthetic fibers.

5. Chloroform

Chloroform is a nonpolar molecule that consists of one carbon atom, three hydrogen atoms, and one chlorine atom. The electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen is very small, and the electronegativity difference between carbon and chlorine is also relatively small, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Chloroform is a common organic solvent and was once used as an anesthetic.

6. Ethanol

Ethanol is a polar molecule that becomes nonpolar when it is dissolved in water. The electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen is very small, and the electronegativity difference between carbon and oxygen is also relatively small, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Ethanol is a common organic solvent and is also found in alcoholic beverages.

7. Ozone

Ozone is a nonpolar molecule that consists of three oxygen atoms. The electronegativity difference between the three oxygen atoms is very small, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Ozone is a gas that is found in the Earth's atmosphere and plays an important role in protecting the planet from harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

8. Propane

Propane is a nonpolar molecule that consists of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. The electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen is very small, resulting in a symmetrical molecule with no partial charges. Propane is a common fuel used in heating and cooking appliances, as well as in some vehicles.

9. Tetrafluoromethane

Tetrafluoromethane is a nonpolar molecule that