Which of the following best describes the polarity of a molecule of F_2?

• A. F_2 is a polar molecule because fluorine is highly electronegative.
• B. F_2 is a nonpolar molecule because it consists of two identical atoms sharing electrons equally.
• C. F_2 is a nonpolar molecule because it contains a double bond.
• D. F_2 is a polar molecule because it has a bent molecular geometry.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of molecular polarity, which depends on the difference in electronegativity between atoms and the molecular geometry.
2. Step 2: Recognize that F_2 consists of two identical fluorine atoms bonded together, meaning both atoms have the same electronegativity.
3. Step 3: Since the atoms are identical, the electrons in the F-F bond are shared equally, resulting in no partial charges on either atom.
4. Step 4: Consider the molecular geometry of F_2, which is linear (a diatomic molecule), so there is no asymmetry to create a dipole moment.
5. Step 5: Conclude that because of equal sharing of electrons and symmetrical geometry, F_2 is a nonpolar molecule.