Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of CO_2?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which term best describes the molecular geometry of the carbon dioxide (CO_2) molecule?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Linear
C
Bent
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule, which is carbon (C) in CO_2.
Determine the number of regions of electron density (bonding and lone pairs) around the central atom. In CO_2, 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 regions. Two regions of electron density arrange themselves to minimize repulsion by being 180° apart.
Recognize that when there are two regions of electron density and no lone pairs on the central atom, the molecular geometry is linear.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of CO_2 is linear, not trigonal planar, bent, or tetrahedral.
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