Question

answer the questions in the table below about the shape of the carbon dioxide (co₂) molecule. how many electron groups are around the central carbon atom? note: one \electron group\ means one lone pair, one single bond, one double bond, or one triple bond. what phrase best describes the arrangement of these electron groups around the central carbon atom? (you may need to use the scrollbar to see all the choices.)

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze $CO_2$ structure

The Lewis - structure of $CO_2$ is $O = C=O$. The central carbon atom has no lone - pairs and is bonded to two oxygen atoms by double bonds.

Step2: Count electron groups

Since each double bond is one electron group, and there are no lone - pairs on the central carbon, the number of electron groups around the central carbon atom is 2.

Step3: Determine electron - group arrangement

According to the VSEPR (Valence - Shell Electron - Pair Repulsion) theory, when there are 2 electron groups around a central atom, the electron - group arrangement is linear.

Answer:

How many electron groups are around the central carbon atom? 2
What phrase best describes the arrangement of these electron groups around the central carbon atom? Linear