Question

if two atoms are bonded to a central atom with no lone pairs, how will they be arranged?
a. in a trigonal planar shape
b. in a linear shape
c. in a tetrahedral shape
d. in a bent shape

Explanation:

To determine the molecular geometry, we use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory. When a central atom has 2 bonded atoms and no lone pairs, the electron - pair geometry and molecular geometry are linear. A trigonal planar shape requires 3 bonded atoms (no lone pairs), a tetrahedral shape requires 4 bonded atoms (or a combination of bonded atoms and lone pairs that totals to a tetrahedral electron - pair geometry), and a bent shape usually occurs when there are lone pairs on the central atom along with bonded atoms (e.g., 2 bonded atoms and 2 lone pairs would give a bent shape). So with 2 bonded atoms and no lone pairs, the arrangement is linear.

Answer:

B. In a linear shape