Question

Consider each possible structure of carbon dioxide, CO₂. Determine whether the structure is correct and justify your decision. Choose the most appropriate option from the given choices.

a. Linear structure with two double bonds between carbon and oxygen atoms.
b. Trigonal planar structure with one double bond and two single bonds.
c. Tetrahedral structure with three single bonds.
d. Bent structure with two double bonds.

Answer 1

The correct structure for carbon dioxide is a linear structure with two double bonds between carbon and oxygen atoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct structure for carbon dioxide, CO₂, is a. Linear structure with two double bonds between carbon and oxygen atoms. In the structure of CO₂, carbon forms two double bonds with the two oxygen atoms. Each oxygen atom shares two electrons with carbon, resulting in a total of four shared electrons between carbon and oxygen. This gives carbon dioxide a linear molecular geometry.