Which of the following molecules possess a net dipole moment equal to zero ()? — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question
Question
Which of the following molecules possess a net dipole moment equal to zero ($\mu = 0$)?
Answer: A,C
💡 Solution & Explanation
$XeF_4$ is square planar (symmetrical, $\mu=0$). $PCl_3F_2$ is trigonal bipyramidal with the highly electronegative $F$ atoms at the axial positions and $Cl$ atoms at the equatorial positions (symmetrical, $\mu=0$). $SF_4$ (see-saw) and $ClF_3$ (T-shaped) are asymmetrical due to lone pairs and thus are polar ($\mu eq 0$).
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