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4.15     Although both  CO_{2}  and H_{2}O  are triatomic molecules, the shape of H_{2}O  molecule is bent while that of CO_{2} is linear. Explain this on the basis of dipole moment.

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For regular structures or symmetrical structures, the dipole moment is 0. Unsymmetrical structures have a non-zero dipole moment. In case of CO_{2} the net dipole moment is zero because the dipole of two equal bonds cancels with one another. Structure of carbon dioxide is-
Carbon Dioxide dipole moment Resultant μ = 0 D

On the other hand dipole moment of H_{2}O  is 1.84D. H_{2}O is an unsymmetrical molecule and also bent geometries(not linear structure),  because the bond polarities do not cancel each other. Therefore moleculeH_2O has a bent structure with bond angle 104°. Structure of water is-

Dipole moment of water   Resultant μ = 1.84 D

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