Is #CO_2# an ionic salt or covalent molecule?
1 Answer
A non-polar covalent molecule (with a polar covalent bond).
Explanation:
- 1 carbon atom,
- 2 oxygen atom.
Carbon and oxygen are non-metals, thus we know carbon dioxide is a covalent compound.
Another method is by calculating the difference in electronegativity, we can determine the polarity of the molecule. Calculating the electronegativity also provides the intramolecular force within the compound.
Ionic compounds
- Ionic:
Covalent compounds
- Polar Covalent Bonds:
- Non-polar Covalent Bonds:
#DeltaEN= 3.5 - 2.5#
#=1.0#
Examining the geometric shape of the molecule, results in the linear shape - a symmetrical geometry. This results in the dipoles cancelling out, therefore the molecule becomes non-polar, despite its polar bond.
Therefore,
Hope this helps :)