Question

which of the following represents the molecular geometry for a molecule with the formula h₂co? trigonal pyramidal tetrahedral linear trigonal planar

Explanation:

Step1: Determine central atom

In $H_2CO$, carbon (C) is the central atom.

Step2: Count bonding pairs and lone - pairs

Carbon has 3 bonding pairs (two C - H bonds and one C = O bond) and 0 lone - pairs around it.

Step3: Apply VSEPR theory

According to VSEPR (Valence - Shell Electron - Pair Repulsion) theory, when a central atom has 3 bonding pairs and 0 lone - pairs, the molecular geometry is trigonal planar.

Answer:

Trigonal Planar (the last option in the multiple - choice list)