Which arrow correctly indicates the direction of bond polarity for the H–Cl bond?

• A. Cl → H
• B. No arrow; the bond is nonpolar
• C. H → Cl

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that bond polarity arises due to differences in electronegativity between two atoms in a bond. The more electronegative atom attracts the bonding electrons more strongly, creating a partial negative charge (δ-) on that atom and a partial positive charge (δ+) on the other.
2. Step 2: Identify the electronegativities of hydrogen (H) and chlorine (Cl). Chlorine is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning Cl will attract the bonding electrons more strongly.
3. Step 3: Recall that the direction of bond polarity is indicated by an arrow pointing from the less electronegative atom (partial positive) to the more electronegative atom (partial negative). The arrow usually has a cross (⊕) at the tail to indicate the positive end.
4. Step 4: Apply this to the H–Cl bond: since H is less electronegative and Cl is more electronegative, the arrow should point from H to Cl, indicating electron density shifts toward Cl.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct arrow indicating bond polarity for the H–Cl bond is H → Cl, showing the direction of electron pull toward chlorine.