Q
QuestionChemistry

"Is F^2 a polar or nonpolar molecule and why? Electronegativity Values: Element: Fluorine Electronegativity: 4.0 Select one: a. F^2 is a polar molecule because it has nonbonding electrons. b. F^2 is a nonpolar molecule because the F-F bond is nonpolar. c. F^2 is a nonpolar molecule because the F-F bond is polar. d. F^2 is a polar molecule because the F-F bond is polar."
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Answer

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Step 1
: Determine the electronegativity difference between Fluorine atoms in the F-F bond.

\Delta EN = EN_{F} - EN_{F} = 4.0 - 4.0 = 0
The electronegativity of Fluorine is 4.0. Since F^2 is a homonuclear diatomic molecule, both atoms have the same electronegativity value. Therefore, the electronegativity difference between the two Fluorine atoms is:

Step 2
: Analyze the electronegativity difference to determine the polarity of the F-F bond.

According to Pauling's scale, a polar covalent bond has an electronegativity difference greater than 0.5, while a nonpolar covalent bond has an electronegativity difference of 0. Since the electronegativity difference for the F-F bond is 0, the F-F bond is nonpolar.

Final Answer

F^2 is a nonpolar molecule because the F-F bond is nonpolar, and the centers of positive and negative charges align in the molecule.