CO2 is gas while SiO2 is solid at room temperature?

Correct answer: B. CO2 is an independent molecule while SiO2 has network covalent structure

  • A. carbon is non-metal while silicon is semi-metal
  • B. CO2 is an independent molecule while SiO2 has network covalent structure
  • C. CO2 forms multiple bond while silicon does not form multiple bonds
  • D. Silicon has all sigma bonds

Explanation

CO2 exists as small, independent linear molecules, so the weak intermolecular forces allow it to remain a gas. SiO2 forms a giant three-dimensional network of Si-O covalent bonds, requiring much more energy to separate; option a is a common mistake because the difference is not explained simply by carbon being non-metallic and silicon semi-metallic.

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About Reactions of Group IV Elements

Group IV, or Group 14, chemistry covers the trends from carbon and silicon to tin and lead, including their reactions with oxygen, halogens, water, acids and alkalis. It also examines the structures and properties of their oxides and chlorides, oxidation states, and the inert pair effect, rather than treating all members as equally metallic.

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