Question

Which statement best describes the polarity of SF_4Cl_2?? (or: SF4Cl2, if that helps more)

1. Always polar.

2. Always nonpolar.

3. Depending on the arrangement of outer atoms, this molecule could be polar or nonpolar.

& how can you tell for certain??? I think that it might be: #2, "always non-polar"...

~thank you

Answer 1

If the four F atoms are in the equatorial positions and the two Cl atoms are axial, all polar bonds cancel.
This is what it said when I had tried "always polar"...I had selected the wrong answer.
So...it is either then, as I had originally thought: "always non-polar" or "#3...depending on the arrangemen of the outer atoms, this molecule could be polar or non-polar". I am thinking that #3 might be correct now, considering what was written under when I got it wrong. It usually doesn't say anything if you are 100% wrong.
Pls help.

Answer 2

I believe in this case that it is non-polar; however, the way the question is worded, I think the answer is that it depends upon how the atoms are arranged, which is #3.

Answer 3

yes...I guess they were looking for #3.

Answer 4

I think the answer is 3. Depending on the arrangement of outer atoms, this molecule could be polar or nonpolar, which depends totally on the arrangements of the outer atoms.

Answer 5

The answer is 3

Answer 6

The answer is"it depends on the arranagement of the outer atoms.

Answer 7

Depending on the arrangement of outer atoms, this molecule could be polar or nonpolar.

Answer 8

Always polar on mastering chemistry

Answer 9

I think its ans is #3

Answer 10

i agree 23^^^