4.15 Although both and are triatomic molecules, the shape of molecule is bent while that of is linear. Explain this on the basis of dipole moment.
For regular structures or symmetrical structures, the dipole moment is 0. Unsymmetrical structures have a non-zero dipole moment. In case of the net dipole moment is zero because the dipole of two equal bonds cancels with one another. Structure of carbon dioxide is-
Resultant μ = 0 D
On the other hand dipole moment of is 1.84D. is an unsymmetrical molecule and also bent geometries(not linear structure), because the bond polarities do not cancel each other. Therefore molecule has a bent structure with bond angle 104°. Structure of water is-
Resultant μ = 1.84 D