Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of BeCl_2?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry of carbon dioxide (CO_2)?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Linear
C
Tetrahedral
D
Bent
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule, which is carbon (C) in carbon dioxide (CO_2).
Determine the number of regions of electron density (bonding and lone pairs) around the central atom. Carbon forms two double bonds with oxygen atoms and has no lone pairs.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the molecular geometry based on the number of electron density regions. Two regions of electron density arrange themselves to minimize repulsion by being 180° apart.
Recognize that with two bonding regions and no lone pairs, the molecular geometry is linear.
Confirm that the bond angle in CO_2 is approximately 180°, consistent with a linear shape.
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