Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
nonpolar
adjective
/nɒnˈpoʊlər/
Definition
Nonpolar refers to a molecule that does not have distinct poles or regions of positive and negative charge. It means that the distribution of electric charge is even, resulting in no overall dipole moment.
Examples
- Oil is a nonpolar substance and does not mix with water.
- Molecules such as carbon dioxide (CO2) are considered nonpolar due to their symmetrical shape.
Meaning
In chemistry, a nonpolar substance is one that does not interact favorably with polar solvents like water. Instead, it is more soluble in nonpolar solvents. Nonpolar molecules tend to have symmetrical structures and do not exhibit significant electronegativity differences between their constituent atoms.
Synonyms
- Nonionic
- Hydrophobic
