Question

Why is the dipole moment of benzene zero?

Answer 1

Dipole moment

• Dipole moments form as a result of the difference in electronegativity between two chemically bonded atoms.
• A dipole moment arises in any system where there is charge separation.
• It may be found in both ionic and covalent bonds.
• Asymmetric or different electro-negativities indicate molecules having a dipole moment.
• Example: Hydrogen chloride and chloroform.

Benzene has zero dipole moment

• The benzene molecule has a symmetrical planar structure.
• The structure of benzene is as follows:

• Carbon and hydrogen in benzene molecules have distinct electronegativities.
• It has six $\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{H}$ bonds whose dipole moments cancel out one another, resulting in zero net dipole moment.