Organic Chemistry (8th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321768418
ISBN 13: 978-0-32176-841-4

Chapter 2 - Structure and Properties of Organic Molecules - Problems - Page 56: Problem 2-5 a

Answer

The geometry of $CO_{2}$ is linear with bond angle $180^{\circ}$. There is no three-dimensional representation of $CO_{2}$.

Work Step by Step

The outer shell electronic configuration of C is $2s^{2}$$2p^{2}$ and the outer shell electronic configuration of O is $2s^{2}$$2p^{4}$ . Therefore the total number of valent electrons is $$(4\times1)+(2\times6)=16$$ In order to achieve octet configuration we draw covalent bonds between C and two oxygen atoms. Therefore, the Lewis structure for $CO_{2}$ looks as enclosed. Since C is surrounded by two pairs of electrons it has $sp^{}$ hybridization with bond angle $180^{\circ}$ and linear arrangement. The oxygen atoms are surrounded by three pairs of electrons, so they have $sp^{2}$ hybridization with trigonal planar geometry and the bond angle less than $120^{\circ}$. Therefore, the geometry of $CO_{2}$ is linear. It is not possible to draw three-dimensional representation since $CO_{2}$ has linear geometry.
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