Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of the left carbon atom (circled) in acetic acid ()?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Trigonal planar
C
Linear
D
Bent
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the left carbon atom in acetic acid (CH\_3COOH). This carbon is the one bonded to three hydrogen atoms and one carbon atom (the carbonyl carbon).
Determine the number of atoms directly bonded to this carbon and the number of lone pairs on it. Since carbon typically forms four bonds and does not have lone pairs, count the four substituents attached to this carbon.
Recognize that the left carbon is bonded to three hydrogens and one carbon atom, making a total of four single bonds.
Recall that a carbon atom with four single bonds and no lone pairs adopts a tetrahedral geometry to minimize electron pair repulsion, according to VSEPR theory.
Conclude that the molecular geometry around the left carbon atom in acetic acid is tetrahedral.