What is the characteristic bond angle between atoms in a linear molecule?

• A. 120^ext{o}
• B. 180^ext{o}
• C. 109.5^ext{o}
• D. 90^ext{o}

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the molecular geometry described in the problem. A linear molecule means the atoms are arranged in a straight line.
2. Recall that the bond angle is the angle formed between two bonds originating from the central atom in a molecule.
3. For a linear molecule, the atoms are positioned directly opposite each other, creating a straight line.
4. The characteristic bond angle for a linear molecule is therefore the angle that corresponds to a straight line, which is 180^\text{o}.
5. Compare this with other common bond angles: 120^\text{o} is typical for trigonal planar, 109.5^\text{o} for tetrahedral, and 90^\text{o} for octahedral or square planar geometries.