The dipole moments of the two C=O bonds are exactly equal and opposite, making O=C=O nonpolar. As a result, they cancel each other out, resulting in a net dipole moment of zero for O=C=O. Because the form of this combination is non-linear, the net dipole moment of R—O—R is not equal to zero, and therefore R—O—R is polar in nature.
Explain why is O=C=O nonpolar while R—O—R is polar.
Explain why is O=C=O nonpolar while R—O—R is polar.