Final answer:
The three-carbon molecule is nonpolar because the C-H bonds are evenly distributed and have a small electronegativity difference, leading to a symmetrical and balanced distribution of electron density.
Step-by-step explanation:
The molecule in question is a hydrocarbon with a simple chain structure of three carbon atoms each bonded to hydrogen atoms (propane). This molecule is nonpolar because the C-H bonds have a relatively small difference in electronegativity, leading to an even distribution of electron density across the molecule.
Additionally, the tetrahedral geometry around each carbon atom ensures that the dipole moments of individual C-H bonds cancel each other out due to their symmetrical arrangement. Thus, even though the C-H bonds are slightly polar, the overall molecule remains nonpolar because of the symmetry in its molecular shape based on VSEPR theory.