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Is SCl6 polar or nonpolar? – Polarity of SCl6

The question is –

Is SCl6 polar or nonpolar?

Answer:

SCl6 is a non-polar molecule.   

Explanation:

Sulfur hexachloride (SCl6) is a non-polar molecule as the dipole moments of individually polar S-Cl bonds get canceled uniformly in opposite directions in the symmetrical octahedral shape and molecular geometry.

SCl6 consists of six S-Cl single covalent bonds. Each S-Cl bond is polar due to an electronegativity difference of 0.58 units between the bonded sulfur (E.N = 2.58) and chlorine (E.N = 3.16) atoms.

Thus, each S-Cl bond possesses a specific dipole moment value (symbol µ).

The central S-atom gains a partial positive (δ+) charge, while each of the six terminal Cl-atoms gains partial negative (δ) charges.

All 6 valence electrons of the central S-atom get consumed in covalent bonding; therefore, there is no lone pair of electrons present on it in SCl6.

The molecule thus possesses a symmetrical octahedral shape, identical to its ideal electron pair geometry.

is scl6 polar or nonpolar

The S-Cl dipole moments get canceled equally in opposite directions, which results in a net zero dipole moment value.

Consequently, SCl6 is overall non-polar (net µ = 0).

Also, check –

Is SF6 polar or nonpolar?

How to identify polar or nonpolar compounds?

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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/

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