Molecular Polarity

Visualize dipole moments and electron density in 3D

A bond is polar when two atoms have different electronegativities — the more electronegative atom pulls electron density toward itself, creating a partial negative charge (δ⁻) and leaving the other end partially positive (δ⁺). Each polar bond has a dipole moment vector pointing from δ⁺ to δ⁻. The net molecular dipole is the vector sum of all bond dipoles. In symmetric molecules like CO₂ or CCl₄, bond dipoles cancel perfectly (net μ = 0, nonpolar). In asymmetric molecules like H₂O or CHCl₃, dipoles add up to a nonzero net moment (polar). Polarity determines solubility, boiling point, and intermolecular forces.