Home » Chemistry Questions » Is GeH4 polar or nonpolar? – Chemistry QnA

Is GeH4 polar or nonpolar? – Polarity of GeH4

The question is –

Is GeH4 polar or nonpolar?

Answer:

GeH4 is a non-polar molecule. 

Explanation:

Germanium (IV) hydride (GeH4) is non-polar as the dipole moments of slightly polar Ge-H bonds get canceled equally in opposite directions in the symmetrical tetrahedral molecular shape.

GeH4 consists of four Ge-H single covalent bonds.

Each Ge-H bond is only slightly polar as it consists of a small electronegativity difference of 0.19 units between a germanium (E.N = 2.01) and a hydrogen (E.N = 2.20) atom.

The central Ge-atom gains a partial positive charge (δ+) while each of the terminal H-atoms gains partial negative charges (δ).

is geh4 polar or nonpolar

All four valence electrons of germanium get consumed in covalent bonding; thus, there is no lone pair of electrons present on the central Ge-atom in GeH4.

Consequently, there is no distortion witnessed in the overall molecular shape.

The GeH4 molecule thus occupies a symmetrical tetrahedral shape, identical to its ideal electron pair geometry.

The Ge-H dipole moments get equally canceled equally in opposite directions in the symmetrical shape to yield an overall non-polar molecule (net µ = 0).

Also, check –

How to identify polar or nonpolar compounds?

Did you like it?

About the author

Vishal Goyal author of topblogtenz.com

Vishal Goyal is the founder of Topblogtenz, a comprehensive resource for students seeking guidance and support in their chemistry studies. He holds a degree in B.Tech (Chemical Engineering) and has four years of experience as a chemistry tutor. The team at Topblogtenz includes experts like experienced researchers, professors, and educators, with the goal of making complex subjects like chemistry accessible and understandable for all. A passion for sharing knowledge and a love for chemistry and science drives the team behind the website. Let's connect through LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-goyal-2926a122b/

Share it...

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About Topblogtenz

Topblogtenz is a website dedicated to providing informative and engaging content related to the field of chemistry and science. We aim to make complex subjects, like chemistry, approachable and enjoyable for everyone.

Copyright © 2023 - topblogtenz.com. All rights Reserved

Scroll to Top