Which of the following molecules is polar: a) SF6 b) IF5 c) PCl5 d) XeF4?

Among the given molecules, the correct answer is IF5.

Explanation:

To determine the polarity of a molecule, we need to consider its symmetry and the electronegativity of its constituent atoms. A polar molecule has a net dipole moment due to an uneven distribution of electron density.

SF6 (Sulfur hexafluoride): This molecule has an octahedral shape, which is highly symmetrical. The bond dipoles cancel each other out, resulting in a nonpolar molecule.

IF5 (Iodine pentafluoride): This molecule has a square pyramidal shape, which is asymmetric. The bond dipoles do not cancel out, making IF5 a polar molecule.

PCl5 (Phosphorus pentachloride): Similar to SF6, PCl5 has a trigonal bipyramidal shape and is symmetric, leading to a nonpolar molecule.

XeF4 (Xenon tetrafluoride): This molecule has a square planar shape, which is also symmetrical. The bond dipoles cancel each other, resulting in a nonpolar molecule.

Therefore, out of the options provided, IF5 is the only polar molecule.

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