According to Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, what is the molecular geometry of the O2 molecule?

• A. Tetrahedral
• B. Bent
• C. Linear
• D. Trigonal planar

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the central atoms and the total number of electron pairs around each atom in the O2 molecule. Since O2 is a diatomic molecule, it consists of two oxygen atoms bonded together.
2. Recall that VSEPR theory predicts molecular geometry based on the repulsion between electron pairs around the central atom. In O2, each oxygen atom is bonded to only one other atom (the other oxygen), and there are no lone pairs affecting the shape between the two atoms.
3. Determine the electron domain geometry around each oxygen atom. Because there is a double bond between the two oxygen atoms and no lone pairs on the bonding axis, the electron pairs are arranged to minimize repulsion in a straight line.
4. Conclude that the molecular geometry of O2 is linear because the two atoms are connected by a double bond and there are no other atoms or lone pairs to cause bending or other shapes.
5. Compare the options given: tetrahedral, bent, linear, and trigonal planar. Since O2 is diatomic and linear, the correct molecular geometry according to VSEPR theory is linear.