QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
"What is the molecular geometry of CO^2?
A. tetrahedral
B. trigonal planar
C. linear
D. trigonal pyramidal
E. bent"
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified LaTeX formatting guidelines:
Step 2:: Determine the Lewis Structure
- The Lewis structure shows two double bonds: $$O = C = O
- Carbon (C) is the central atom - Oxygen (O) atoms are on both sides of the carbon - Each oxygen forms a double bond with carbon - Total electron count: 4 + (2 × 6) = 16 valence electrons
Step 3:: Count Electron Domains
- Central carbon has 2 double bonds - Total electron domains = 2 - No lone pairs on the central carbon - Electron domain geometry is linear
Step 4:: Analyze Molecular Geometry
- Number of bonding domains = 2 - No lone pairs - Atoms arranged in a straight line - Bond angle = 180°
Step 5:: Identify Molecular Geometry
- Linear arrangement of atoms - Symmetrical molecule - No deviation from linear structure
Final Answer
Explanation: CO^2 has a linear molecular geometry due to its symmetric arrangement of two double bonds around the central carbon atom, with a 180° bond angle.
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