Question

Predict the shape and polarity of each of the following molecules, which have polar covalent bonds: $(6.8,6.9)$

a. A central atom with four identical bonded atoms and no lone pairs.

b. A central atom with four bonded atoms that are not identical and no lone pairs.

Short answer

a. The shape of the molecule is tetrahedral and the molecule is non-polar.

b. The shape of the molecule is tetrahedral and the molecule is polar.

Step-by-step solution

Part (a) step 1: Given Information 

We need to predict the polarity and the shape of the molecules.

Part (a) step 2: Explanation 

Four surrounding atoms then it has a Tetrahedral shape for minimum repulsion. Identical group therefore it's non-polar due to symmetry.

Part (b) step 1: Given Information 

We need to predict the polarity and the shape of the molecules.

Part (b) step 2: Explanation 

Four surrounding atoms then it has a Tetrahedral shape for minimum repulsion of electron pair. Non Identical atoms then the molecule is polar.