Question

If each of the following compounds/ions were placed between 2 electrically charged plates (one positive and one negative) Which would have a net attraction to the positive charged end, which would have a net attraction to the negative charge, which would be attracted to both and how is this possible? CH4, CH2Cl2, H3O+, H20, C2H2Cl2(including all 3 isomers), CO2, CO32-, and O3.

Answer 1

If a molecule wants to interact with an electric field. it should have a permanent dipole momentum. so first check the polarity. for example CH4 is not polar. CH2Cl2 is polar (so yes), H3O)+ is obvious that is polar. H2O yes. C2H2Cl2 in trans form is not polar but in cis form yes. CO2 is non-polar. Ozone is polar.