Although both $CO_{2}$ and $H_{2}O$ are triatomic molecules,the shape of $H_{2}O$ molecule is bent while that of $CO_{2}$ is linear. Explain this on the basis of dipole moment.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) According to experimental results,the dipole moment of carbon dioxide $(CO_{2})$ is zero. This is possible only if the molecule is linear,so that the dipole moments of the two $C=O$ bonds are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction,thereby nullifying each other. Resultant $\mu = 0 \, D$.
On the other hand,$H_{2}O$ has a dipole moment of $1.84 \, D$. This non-zero value indicates that the $H_{2}O$ molecule is bent. In this structure,the dipole moments of the two $O-H$ bonds do not cancel each other out,and the presence of lone pairs on the oxygen atom further contributes to the net dipole moment.

Explore More

Similar Questions

If compound $MX_4$ has $\mu = 0$,then the most probable geometry will be:

How many ions are non-polar ions?
$XeF_5^-, SO_3^{2-}, SO_4^{2-}, ClO_4^-, PO_4^{3-}, NO_2^+$

The percentage ionic character of the $HBr$ molecule, if the dipole moment is $0.63 \ D$ and $HBr$ bond length is $187.5 \ pm$, is:

Identify the correct set of molecules with zero dipole moment.

Which of the following has no dipole moment?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo