Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules has a tetrahedral molecular geometry?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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In the molecule carbon dioxide (CO_2), how many electron domains are present around the central carbon atom?
A
4
B
3
C
1
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule CO_2, which is carbon (C).
Determine the number of atoms directly bonded to the central carbon atom. In CO_2, carbon is bonded to two oxygen atoms.
Recall that an electron domain includes both bonding pairs (single, double, or triple bonds) and lone pairs of electrons around the central atom.
Check for any lone pairs on the central carbon atom. Carbon in CO_2 has no lone pairs because it forms double bonds with each oxygen atom.
Count the total electron domains around carbon: since there are two double bonds and no lone pairs, there are 2 electron domains around the central carbon atom.
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