A CH₄ molecule has four C-H bonds. Each of the C-H bonds is weakly polar. However, the molecule has a tetrahedral shape. The shape itself is symmetric.
As a result, charges on the four C-H bonds have a symmetric distribution. They cancel out within the molecule. Overall, the molecule is nonpolar.
The correct statement describing the charge distribution and the polarity of a [tex]{\text{C}}{{\text{H}}_{\text{4}}}[/tex] molecule is as follows:
[tex]\boxed{{\text{The charge distribution is symmetrical and the molecule is nonpolar}}}[/tex].
Further Explanation:
The most important factor in determining the polarity of a bond is the difference in the electronegativity values of the bonded atoms. If there is an electronegativity difference between the bonded atoms, the molecule is said to be polar and vice-versa.
Another factor that plays a significant role in governing the bond polarity is symmetry. If a molecule has symmetry or symmetrical charge distribution, it is said to be nonpolar due to the cancellation of the individual dipole moments present in the molecule and vice-versa.
consists of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms. In this molecule, carbon acts as the central atom and four hydrogen atoms are placed around it in symmetrical positions so the net dipole moment becomes zero. As a result, this molecule is non-polar and has a symmetrical charge distribution (For structure, refer to the attached image).
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Answer details:
Grade: High School
Chapter: Ionic and covalent compounds
Subject: Chemistry
Keywords: polar, nonpolar, symmetry, dipole moment, zero, symmetrical charge distribution, carbon, hydrogen, CH4.
