Which molecular geometry is typically associated with nonpolar molecules?

The correct answer indicates that all the listed molecular geometries can be associated with nonpolar molecules, depending on the symmetry of the molecule.

In general, a molecule is nonpolar if it has a symmetrical arrangement of its atoms and no dipole moment resulting from polarity differences in the bonds.

In a tetrahedral geometry, such as in the case of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄), the shape is symmetrical, allowing any polar bonds to cancel each other out, resulting in a nonpolar molecule. When all four bonds around the central atom are identical, the molecule overall does not have a dipole moment.

Similarly, a linear arrangement, as seen in carbon dioxide (CO₂), is also nonpolar due to its symmetric distribution of charge. The individual dipole moments of the two C=O bonds oppose each other, leading to a cancellation of dipoles.

Trigonal pyramidal geometry, however, is generally associated with polar molecules owing to an asymmetrical arrangement, making it less common for nonpolar molecules. However, if certain specific arrangements and types of atoms lead to a unique symmetrical distribution, even trigonal pyramidal structures could potentially display nonpolar characteristics.

Thus, while not all trigonal pyramidal molecules are nonpolar