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Ch.9 - Molecular Geometry and Bonding Theories
Chapter 9, Problem 43c

Dichloroethylene (C2H2Cl2) has three forms (isomers), each of which is a different substance. (c) How many isomeric forms can chloroethylene, C2H3Cl, have? Would they be expected to have dipole moments?

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Isomerism

Isomerism refers to the phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements or spatial orientations of atoms. In organic chemistry, isomers can be classified into structural isomers, which differ in the connectivity of atoms, and stereoisomers, which have the same connectivity but differ in the arrangement of atoms in space. Understanding isomerism is crucial for predicting the properties and reactivity of compounds.
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Dipole Moment

A dipole moment is a measure of the separation of positive and negative charges in a molecule, indicating its polarity. It arises when there is an uneven distribution of electron density, often due to differences in electronegativity between atoms. Molecules with significant dipole moments are polar and can interact with other polar substances, affecting their physical properties such as solubility and boiling points.
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Chloroethylene Isomers

Chloroethylene (C2H3Cl) can exist in multiple isomeric forms due to the presence of different arrangements of chlorine and hydrogen atoms around the carbon skeleton. The two main types of isomers for chloroethylene are structural isomers, which include vinyl chloride and other configurations, and geometric isomers, which may arise from restricted rotation around double bonds. The presence of these isomers can influence their chemical behavior and physical properties, including dipole moments.
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