methyl-m-nitrobenzoate is more polar than methyl benzoate. There is a large separation of charge in the nitro group (between the nitrogen and oxygens). This leads to a higher level of polarity, and the compound containing the nitro is more polar. Hope this helps! Solution methyl-m-nitrobenzoate is more polar than methyl benzoate. There is a large separation of charge in the nitro group (between the nitrogen and oxygens). This leads to a higher level of polarity, and the compound containing the nitro is more polar. Hope this helps!.