Question

Tetrafluoroethylene (C₂F₄) is the molecule from which teflon is made.

Draw the Lewis Structure for C₂F₄

Does C₂F₄ contain polar or nonpolar bonds?

Is C₂F₄ Polar or Nonpolar?

State the hybridizations of the two C atoms in C₂F₄

Give the electron geometries of the two C atoms in C₂F₄

Give the bond angles in C₂F₄

Teflon is formed when C₂F₂ is polymerized, or in other words, when the pi bonding electrons are used to form sigma bonds between molecules, linking many C₂F₄ molecules together in a long chain (a polymer) as shown to the right. What intermolecular forces do you think dominate in Teflon?

Do you think Teflon should be hydrophobic or hydrophilic? Why?

Why do you think Teflon forms such an effective ‘non-stick’ surface for cooking food?

Answer 1

Drawn below is the Lewis diagram for C2F4

electron geometry = trigonal planar

the molecule is non-polar as polarity due to one C-f bodn is cancelled by the other in the opposite direction.

the hybridization of carbon = sp2

bond angles = 120 degree

Teflon would have weak van der waals interaction along with dipole dipole interactions in the system.

Teflon is hydrophobic in nature. the halogens makes the systems hydrophobic or water repellent in nature.

Due to hydrophobic nature, teflon does not stick to either water of oil and thus makes perfect candidate for application in the manufacture of non-stick surface.