The bases of chemical reactions are the covalent bonds between atoms or elements. A covalent bond is formed by the sharing of electrons between two atoms. It was introduced by G.N. Lewis in the year 1916. These bonds are directional, and hence they get a definite shape. There are two types of covalent bonds. Chemical bonds exist as polar covalent bonds and nonpolar covalent bonds.
Polar:
When atoms with various electronegativities share electrons to form a covalent bond, the result is a polar covalent bond. Polar bonds have a high melting point, surface tension, boiling point and low vapour pressure. Polar molecules interact with other polar substances. These molecules have positive and negative charges on opposite ends. Therefore, they are electrically charged. Examples: Sulphur, alcohol etc.
Nonpolar:
When two atoms share electrons evenly, a type of chemical bond known as a non-polar covalent bond is created. Nonpolar bonds have low melting points, surface tension, boiling point and high vapour pressure. Nonpolar molecules do not interact with other nonpolar substances and do not have a profusion of charges at opposite ends. Examples: Carbon dioxide, pentane etc.
To make you understand how polar and nonpolar are different from each other, here are some major differences between polar and nonpolar:
| Difference between Polar and Nonpolar | |
| POLAR | NON POLAR |
| The molecules with polar bonds are usually asymmetrical. | The molecules with non polar bonds are usually symmetrical. |
| It has electrical poles. | It does not have electrical poles. |
| One end of the molecule has a positive whereas the other end has a negative charge. | It does not have profusion of charges at opposite ends. |
| At least one polar covalent is present in all polar molecules. | Nonpolar covalent is not present in all nonpolar molecules. |
| Charge separation is present. | No charge separation. |
| Dipole moment | No dipole moment. |
| Example: Water | Example: Oil |
These were some important difference between nonpolar and polar. To know differences between other topics in chemistry you can register to BYJU’S or download our app for simple and interesting content. India’s largest k-12 learning app with top-notch teachers from across the nation with excellent teaching skills. Find notes, question papers for other subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Biology and various competitive exams as well. Enjoy learning with great experience. Learning is no more boring with BYJU’S.
Related Links:
| Bond polarity | Polarity |
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