Chapter U2.38, Problem 3E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The shape of Cl₂, CO₂ and H₂O molecule must be described with the help of Lewis dot structures, periodic table and HONC 1234 rule.

Concept introduction:

The shape of a molecule depends on the number of valence electrons (including lone pair and bond pair electrons) present in the central atom. The number of valence electron is obtained from the location of the element in the periodic table.

HONC 1234 rule stases that H, O, N and C can form 1, 2, 3 and 4 bonds respectively.

Answer to Problem 3E

Shape of Cl₂ is linear.

Shape of CO₂is linear.

Shape of H₂O molecule is angular.

Explanation of Solution

The Lewis dot structure for Cl₂, CO₂, and H₂O is represented as follows:

  

In Cl₂ , two Cl atoms are bonded with each other in single bond. Total 7 valence electrons are present on each Cl atom. So there are 3 lone pairs of electrons on each Cl atom.

In CO₂, two O atoms are bonded with central carbon atom in double bond. Total 4 valence electrons are there on the C atom. These electrons are all bonded. So there are 2 lone pairs of electrons on each O atom.

In H₂O, two H atoms are bonded with central O atom in single bond. Total 6 valence electrons are present on O atom. So there are 2 lone pairs of electrons on O atom.

As per HONC 1234 rule each C and O has formed 4 bonds and 2 bonds respectively.