QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
"The Lewis structure for carbon hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is given. What is the three-dimensional shape of the molecule?
H-C≡N
A. bent
B. linear
C. tetrahedral
D. trigonal planar"
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Answer
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Step 1:Let's solve this step by step:
Step 2:: Analyze the Lewis Structure
- The Lewis structure shows H-C≡N, which indicates a single bond between H and C, and a triple bond between C and N. - This suggests we need to determine the electron geometry and molecular geometry.
Step 3:: Determine the Central Atom's Electron Configuration
- Carbon (C) is the central atom - Carbon has 4 valence electrons - In this molecule, carbon forms: * One single bond with hydrogen (H) * One triple bond with nitrogen (N)
Step 4:: Count Electron Domains Around the Central Carbon
- Single bond to H: 1 electron domain - Triple bond to N: 1 electron domain - Total electron domains: 2
Step 5:: Determine Electron Geometry
- 2 electron domains around the central atom - This corresponds to a linear electron geometry
Step 6:: Determine Molecular Geometry
- With 2 electron domains and no lone pairs - The molecular shape is linear
Final Answer
Explanation: The HCN molecule has a linear three-dimensional shape due to the two electron domains around the central carbon atom, with the hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen atoms arranged in a straight line.
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