Is CO2 Polar or Non-Polar?
To determine whether carbon dioxide (CO2) is polar or non-polar, we need to examine its molecular
structure, electronegativity of the atoms, and overall symmetry.
Step 1: Understanding Molecular Geometry
CO2 has a linear molecular geometry.
The central atom, carbon (C), is bonded to two oxygen (O) atoms.
The bond angle is 180 degrees.
Step 2: Electronegativity Values
The electronegativity values for the relevant atoms are:
Carbon (C): 2.55
Oxygen (O): 3.44
Step 3: Analyzing Bond Polarities
To find out if the C=O bonds are polar, we calculate the difference in electronegativity:
A difference of 0.89 indicates that the C=O bond is polar.
Step 4: Overall Molecular Polarity
Since CO2 is linear, the dipoles created by each C=O bond point in opposite directions.
The two polar bonds effectively cancel each other out due to the symmetrical arrangement.
Conclusion
Because of its symmetric linear geometry and the cancellation of dipole moments, CO2 is classified as a
non-polar molecule. Further Exploration
Chemguide: Polarity of Molecules
Live Science: What is a Polar Molecule?