Question

which of following molecules would be most likely to form a linear structure?methane ($ch_4$)ammonia ($nh_3$)watercarbon dioxide

Explanation:

1. Methane ($\text{CH}_4$): Has 4 bonding electron pairs, no lone pairs on the central carbon, forming a tetrahedral structure.
2. Ammonia ($\text{NH}_3$): Has 3 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair on the central nitrogen, forming a trigonal pyramidal structure.
3. Water ($\text{H}_2\text{O}$): Has 2 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs on the central oxygen, forming a bent/angular structure.
4. Carbon dioxide ($\text{CO}_2$): Has 2 double bonding pairs, no lone pairs on the central carbon. The electron repulsion between the two double bonds creates a 180° bond angle, resulting in a linear structure.

Answer:

Carbon dioxide