Question

Are dielectrics polar or nonpolar?

Answer 1

Dielectrics can be both polar or nonpolar, depending on their molecular structure.

1. Polar dielectrics: These materials have molecules with a permanent dipole moment, meaning one end of the molecule is positively charged and the other end is negatively charged. When an electric field is applied, these dipoles tend to align with the field. Examples include water (H₂O), which is a polar dielectric.
   

1. Nonpolar dielectrics: In these materials, the molecules don't have a permanent dipole moment. However, when an electric field is applied, the electron cloud around the molecule may shift slightly, creating a temporary dipole that aligns with the field. Examples of nonpolar dielectrics are materials like rubber or some plastics (e.g., polyethylene).
   

So, dielectrics can be either polar or nonpolar depending on whether their molecules naturally have dipoles.