Based on electronegativity differences and bond distances, what is the correct decreasing order of d — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Generally, electronegativity is the dominant factor. However, the $C-Cl$ bond has a significantly larger bond length than $C-F$ which overcompensates for the slightly lower electronegativity difference. Thus, $CH_3Cl$ ($1.93\text{ D}$) > $CH_3F$ ($1.85\text{ D}$) > $CH_3Br$ ($1.79\text{ D}$) > $CH_3I$ ($1.64\text{ D}$).