Question

Chlorine has an electronegativity value of 3.0. Given the electronegativity of N, O, and P (3.0, 3.5, and 2.1, respectively), which of the following molecules has nonpolar bonds?a. NCl3b. Cl2Oc. PCl3d. All of thesee. None of these

Answer 1

Answer:

a. NCl3

Explanation:

All the elements stated are non metals. Generally the bond between non metals is a covalent bond. However depending on how the electrons are shared, this bond can either be polar or non polar.

A non polar covalent bond is formed when the electrons are shared equally between the atoms.

A way to determine if a bond is non polar or polar covalent is by comparing the electronegativity values.

If the electronegativity difference is less than 0.5, it is regarded as a non polar covalent bond.

Going back to the question;

Between N and Cl; the electronegativity difference is 3.0 - 3.0 = 0

Between Cl and O; the electronegativity difference is 3.5 - 3.0 = 0.5

Between Cl and P; the electronegativity difference is 3.5 - 2.1 = 1.4

From these we can tell that the correct option is option A.