Question Details

Which of the following is correct representation of dipole moment of NH3 molecule? 

Options

A

B

C

D

NH3 being symmetrical will not show dipole moment

Show Answer

Correct Answer :

Option B

Solution :

The correct option showing the representation of the dipole moment of the NH3 molecule is:

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding Dipole Moment Direction:
A dipole moment vector is conventionally represented by an arrow with a crossed tail (). The arrow points from the less electronegative atom (positively charged end) towards the more electronegative atom (negatively charged end) or towards the lone pair of electrons.

2. Electronegativity Comparison in N-H Bonds:
In an ammonia (NH3) molecule, nitrogen (N) is significantly more electronegative than hydrogen (H). Therefore, for each of the three N-H bonds, the bond dipole moment points towards the central nitrogen atom (from H to N).

3. Contribution of the Lone Pair:
Nitrogen has one lone pair of electrons residing in an orbital above the central N atom. The dipole moment contribution from the lone pair acts upwards, pointing away from the nitrogen atom towards the electron pair density.

4. Resultant Dipole Moment (μresultant):
Since the three N-H bond dipoles point upwards towards nitrogen, their vector sum adds constructively in the same upward direction as the lone pair dipole moment.
Consequently, the net or resultant dipole moment (μresultant) of the NH3 molecule points vertically upwards, giving NH3 a net dipole moment of about 1.47 D.

5. Analysis of the Image Options:
- All three N-H bond dipoles point upwards toward N.
- The lone pair dipole arrow points upwards away from N.
- The overall resultant dipole moment (μresultant) arrow points upwards, perfectly matching the correct option.

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