Question

Which of the following shapes are possible when three atoms are bonded to a central atom?

Option 1: Linear
Option 2: Trigonal Planar
Option 3: Tetrahedral
Option 4: Octahedral

Answer 1

• The possible shapes when three atoms are bonded to a central atom are trigonal planar, tetrahedral, and linear.

• Step-by-step explanation:

• When three atoms are bonded to a central atom, the possible shapes that can be formed are trigonal planar, tetrahedral, and linear.

• Trigonal planar: This shape occurs when the central atom is bonded to three other atoms and the angle between the bonded atoms is 120 degrees. An example of a molecule with a trigonal planar shape is BF3.

• Tetrahedral: This shape occurs when the central atom is bonded to four other atoms and the angle between the bonded atoms is 109.5 degrees. An example of a molecule with a tetrahedral shape is CH4.

• Linear: This shape occurs when the central atom is bonded to two other atoms and the angle between the bonded atoms is 180 degrees. An example of a molecule with a linear shape is CO2.