Main Answer:
NH3's symmetrical trigonal pyramidal geometry cancels dipole moments, resulting in a molecular dipole moment of zero. (D) NH3.
Therefore, the correct answer is (D) NH3.
Step-by-step explanation:
NH3, or ammonia, has a dipole moment of zero. This is due to its symmetrical trigonal pyramidal molecular geometry, where the nitrogen atom is the central atom and the three hydrogen atoms are arranged symmetrically around it. The electronegativity difference between nitrogen and hydrogen leads to polar covalent bonds, but the overall molecular structure results in the cancellation of dipole moments. The lone pair on nitrogen creates an uneven distribution of charge, but the symmetrical arrangement ensures that the dipole moments from the polar bonds offset each other, resulting in a net dipole moment of zero.
Ammonia's dipole moment is crucial in understanding its chemical behavior and interactions. Despite having polar bonds, ammonia molecules do not exhibit an overall dipole moment, impacting properties such as solubility, boiling point, and intermolecular forces. The cancellation of dipole moments in NH3 is a result of molecular geometry, emphasizing the significance of structural considerations in predicting molecular properties.
Understanding molecular dipole moments is essential in various scientific disciplines, including chemistry and biology. It plays a role in predicting molecular behavior, reactivity, and physical properties.
Therefore, the correct answer is (D) NH3.