Question

predict the approximate molecular geometry around each carbon atom of acetonitrile.

h₃c—c≡n:

the carbon atom in ch₃ is:
○ linear
○ tetrahedral
○ trigonal planar
○ trigonal pyramidal
○ bent

the nitrile carbon atom (c≡n) is:
○ bent
○ tetrahedral
○ trigonal planar
○ trigonal pyramidal
○ linear

Explanation:

For the $\text{CH}_3$ carbon: It has 4 single bonds (3 to H, 1 to the other C), giving 4 electron domains, which corresponds to tetrahedral geometry.
For the nitrile carbon ($\text{C≡N}$): It has 1 single bond (to $\text{CH}_3$) and 1 triple bond (to N), totaling 2 electron domains, which corresponds to linear geometry.

Answer:

The carbon atom in $\text{CH}_3$ is: tetrahedral
The nitrile carbon atom ($\text{C≡N}$) is: linear