Answer – The covalent bonds between carbon and hydrogen atoms in molecules of CH4 or methane are nonpolar.
Explanation:
Covalent bonds are one of two types of bonds that form between the atoms of a molecule. (The other type of bonds are called ionic bonds).
For covalent bonds to form, pairs of electrons are shared between the atoms, helping them reach stability. These shared electrons are valence electrons – electrons from the outermost shells of each atom. Such bonds allow the individual atoms to acquire eight valence electrons each, in accordance with the octet rule.
Polarities in covalent molecules may arise if there is a significant difference in the electronegativities of the individual atoms. In such cases, the electrons are distributed unequally, with the shared pair(s) being pulled closer to the atom with the higher electronegativity. Polar covalent bonds are less stable than nonpolar ones.
CH4 (methane) molecules are nonpolar as the difference in the electronegativities of carbon and hydrogen atoms is practically negligible. (The electronegativity of carbon is 2.55 while that of hydrogen is 2.2).
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