Explain why `O=C=O` is non - polar while `R-O-R` is polar ?

Explanation

`CO_(2)` is a linear molecule. The dipole moment of two `C=0` bonds are equal and opposite. Hence, they cancel each other so, the dipole moment of `CO_(2)` is zero and it is non - polar molecule.

While for ethers, two dipoles do not cancel the effect of each other. Therefore, there is a finite resultant dipoles and hence, `R-O-R` is a polar molecule.