Final answer:
The electron dot formula for O₂ represents two oxygen atoms each sharing two pairs of electrons, forming a double covalent bond between them. The correct option is:2) Two oxygen atoms sharing one pair of electrons
Step-by-step explanation:
The electron dot formula for O₂ shows two oxygen atoms sharing two pairs of electrons, which is equivalent to a double covalent bond. Each oxygen atom has six electrons in its valence shell, and by sharing two pairs of electrons, they both achieve a more stable electronic configuration. This bonding arrangement is represented in chemical structures as O=O, indicating the double bond between the two oxygen atoms. The electron dot formula, also known as Lewis dot structure, for O₂ depicts the arrangement of electrons around the oxygen atoms. Oxygen has six valence electrons, and the electron dot formula illustrates how these electrons are shared between the two oxygen atoms to form a stable molecule.
The sharing of one pair of electrons forms a single covalent bond, resulting in the diatomic molecule O₂. Options 1, 3, and 4 involve the sharing of more electron pairs than is typically observed in a diatomic molecule of oxygen. Therefore, the correct representation for the electron dot formula of O₂ is two oxygen atoms sharing one pair of electrons. Therefore, the correct option is:2) Two oxygen atoms sharing one pair of electrons.