Polarity and Geometry of BCl3

The video tutorial explains how to determine if BCl3 is polar or nonpolar. It begins with the Lewis structure to understand the distribution of valence electrons. Using VSEPR theory, the video visualizes BCl3 in three dimensions, showing how chlorine atoms spread around the central boron atom. The molecular geometry is identified as trigonal planar, which is symmetrical. Due to this symmetry, BCl3 is nonpolar with no net dipole moment.

What is the first step in determining if BCl3 is polar or nonpolar?

• Measure the bond angles

• Draw the Lewis structure

• Check the molecular weight

• Count the number of atoms

What theory is used to predict the 3D arrangement of atoms in BCl3?

• Crystal Field Theory

• VSEPR Theory

• Molecular Orbital Theory

• Hybridization Theory

How many chlorine atoms are bonded to the central boron atom in BCl3?

• Five

• Four

• Three

• Two

What is the molecular geometry of BCl3?

• Tetrahedral

• Bent

• Linear

• Trigonal Planar

What happens to the chlorine atoms in BCl3 according to VSEPR theory?

• They attract each other

• They repel each other

• They cluster together

• They form a linear shape

Why does BCl3 have no net dipole moment?

• It is asymmetrical

• It has polar bonds

• It has lone pairs

• It is symmetrical

What is the significance of a molecule being symmetrical?

• It has a net dipole

• It is always polar

• It has no net dipole

• It is always nonpolar

Which of the following best describes the polarity of BCl3?

• Polar due to asymmetry

• Nonpolar due to symmetry

• Polar due to lone pairs

• Nonpolar due to polar bonds