Q131 / 150 · MHT CET 2026 (17 April Shift 1) · Physics
Select the WRONG statement about polar molecules.
- APolar molecules have permanent dipole moment.
- BA molecule in which centre of mass of positive charges does not coincide with the centre of mass of negative charges is a polar molecule.
- Correct answerCPolar molecules have symmetrical shape.
- DPolar molecules act as tiny electric dipoles.
Solution
In a polar molecule, the centre of mass of positive charges does not coincide with the centre of mass of negative charges. This separation of charges results in a permanent electric dipole moment, causing the molecule to act as a tiny electric dipole.
Because the charge distribution is uneven, polar molecules generally have an asymmetrical shape. Symmetrical molecules (like $\text{CO}_2$ or $\text{CH}_4$) have their centres of positive and negative charges coinciding, resulting in a net zero dipole moment, making them non-polar.
Therefore, the statement that polar molecules have a symmetrical shape is incorrect.
Answer: Polar molecules have symmetrical shape.
Because the charge distribution is uneven, polar molecules generally have an asymmetrical shape. Symmetrical molecules (like $\text{CO}_2$ or $\text{CH}_4$) have their centres of positive and negative charges coinciding, resulting in a net zero dipole moment, making them non-polar.
Therefore, the statement that polar molecules have a symmetrical shape is incorrect.
Answer: Polar molecules have symmetrical shape.
Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.