Both H2O and CO2 have 3 atoms, yet one is polar and one is nonpolar. Explain why, using Lewis dot structures in your answer

Answer 1

CO2 is linear.
O=C=O
Symmetrical molecules have no net dipole moment.

H2O is angular.
H
|
O-H
Non-symmetrical molecules have a dipole moment if the electronegativity of the central atom is different from the attached atoms.