Which molecule has a linear shape?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A.
- Step 1: Analyze the Lewis structure and valence electron pairs for carbon dioxide (): the central carbon atom forms two double bonds with oxygen atoms and possesses zero non-bonding lone pairs (steric number , type).
- Step 2: By Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, two electron domains arrange themselves on opposite sides at a bond angle to minimize electrostatic repulsion.
- Step 3: Hence, adopts a strictly linear molecular geometry.
Answer
.
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