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Question

Why is HCl considered a polar covalent compound?


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Solution

Polar covalent compound

  • In a polar covalent bond, two atoms share a pair of electrons unequally because of differences in their electro-negativities.
  • The unequal distribution of electrons causes the bonded atoms to acquire fractional positive and negative charges.
  • Examples: Hydrochloric acid HCl and water H2O

Polarity of HCl

  • In the HCl molecules, hydrogen and chlorine atoms share electrons.
  • Hence, HCl exhibits covalent behavior.
  • Since the chloride ion is more electronegative than the hydrogen ion, HCl is a polar covalent compound.
  • Therefore, hydrogen has a partial positive character, whereas chloride has a partial negative character.
  • Structure of HCl:

Dipole Moment - Definition, Detailed Explanation and Formula


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