Question

question 18 of 25
what is a molecular dipole moment?

a. the arrangement of charges around an atom in a nonpolar
molecule
b. a separation of charge forming a positive and a negative end of a
molecule
c. a separation of charge characterizing a nonpolar covalent bond
d. a net cancellation of charge separation due to symmetry of the
molecule

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: A molecular dipole moment is about the molecule, not just an atom in a nonpolar molecule. Nonpolar molecules have no net dipole moment, so this is incorrect.
• Option B: A molecular dipole moment is indeed a separation of charge in a molecule that results in a positive and a negative end (a polar molecule has a dipole moment). This matches the definition.
• Option C: A nonpolar covalent bond has no separation of charge (or a very small one, but by definition, nonpolar bonds don't have a dipole moment characteristic). So this is incorrect.
• Option D: A net cancellation of charge separation due to symmetry results in a nonpolar molecule with no dipole moment, so this is the opposite of a dipole moment.

Answer:

B. A separation of charge forming a positive and a negative end of a molecule