When Should Electronegativity and Molecular Shape Be Considered?

[Veronica_Oles]

Homework Statement

When to use electronegativity value? and when to look at both bonds and shape?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

This isn't really a question more so need some clarification.

First question is about electronegativity and bond polarity. When placing the delta positive and delta negative on your molecule, you place the delta negative on the molecule with the higher electronegativity number, correct?

You only use the electronegativity values when determining the polarity of a single bone, right??

And your dipole is directed towards the more electronegative atom??

 

[Asim Riaz]

For the second question, you should look at both bond and shape when determining the polarity of a molecule. The shape of the molecule can affect the overall polarity of the molecule. For example, a linear molecule will have no dipole moment, but a bent molecule may have a dipole moment. Additionally, the bond polarities in the molecule can also affect the overall polarity of the molecule. If all the bonds are non-polar, then the molecule will be non-polar. But if there are polar bonds in the molecule, then the molecule will be polar.