Which of the following molecules has the maximum dipole moment?
- CO2
- CH4
- NH3
- NF3
Answer
(3) NH3
Solution
CO2 (linear) and CH4 (tetrahedral) are symmetrical ⇒ μ = 0.
In NH3 the lone-pair moment and the N–H bond moments point in the same direction ⇒ they add up ( = 4.90 10-30 C m).
In NF3 the N–F bond moments oppose the lone-pair moment ⇒ small resultant ( = 0.80 10-30 C m).
∴ NH3 has the maximum dipole moment.
Answer: (3)