Final answer:
The shape of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is predicted using VSEPR theory by considering the arrangement of electron density regions around the central carbon atom. Since there are two double bonds and no lone pairs, the shape is linear with a 180° angle.
Step-by-step explanation:
To use VSEPR theory to predict the shape of carbon dioxide, CO₂, we will start by drawing the Lewis structure. Carbon dioxide consists of a carbon atom double bonded to two oxygen atoms. There are no lone pairs on the carbon atom. Due to the double bonds the carbon atom has two regions of electron density.
According to VSEPR theory the repulsion between these areas of electron density will result in a linear molecular shape, as the atoms will arrange themselves as far apart as possible. This places them at an angle of 180° to each other. Thus, the shape of carbon dioxide is linear not tetrahedral, bent or octahedral.