Question

What is the difference between a polar covalent compound and a non-polar covalent compound?

Answer 1

Polar Covalent Compound:

1. Atoms have unequal distribution of their shared pair of electrons.
2. The unequal distribution of electrons draws the electron pair to the more electronegative atom.
3. Polar covalent molecules are asymmetrical and not electrically neutral. Separation of charges occurs. The atom that attracts electrons more strongly has a slightly negative charge, while the other atom is slightly positive.

Non-polar covalent compound:

1. Atoms have equal distribution of shared electron pairs.
2. Atoms attract each other with equal force due to the equal distribution of electrons.
3. Non-polar covalent molecules are symmetric and electrically neutral. There is no charge separation within the molecule.