Is CH2Cl2 Polar or Nonpolar?

Answer: CH2Cl2 is a polar molecule due to the unequal distribution of charge caused by the pull of electrons from the hydrogen atoms to the chlorine atoms due to hydrogen (2.20) have a lower electronegativity than chlorine (3.16). 

As a result of strong intermolecular forces caused by its polar properties, Dichloromethane has a melting point of -96.7˚C and a boiling point of 39.6˚C. This makes the compound a liquid at standard temperature and pressure. Although the liquid form is volatile, the compound is widely utilized as a solvent. Even though it does not form a solution with water, it can dissolve a wide variety of organic compounds which is why it is utilized as a solvent. CH2Cl2 is naturally produced in wetlands by macroalgae and in volcanic eruptions; however, the majority of the compound on earth is produced by humans in industrial processes. The structure is said to have a "sweet" aroma.

CH2Cl2 Ball and Stick Diagram. Created with MolView.

How is CH2Cl2 utilized in the real world?

In addition to being used as a solvent CH2Cl2 has been applied in the food industry to decaffeinate coffees and teas. The substance due to its low boiling point can extract mechanical energy from small temperature differences. Furthermore the compound can be used to weld certain plastics together. Although it is considered the least toxic of the simple chlorohydrocarbons, dichloromethane still poses serious health risks to overexposed individuals. Products with "DCM" are generally forced to label this on their packaging. It is believed that CH2Cl2 does not impact the ozone layer because it degenerates before reaching the stratosphere.