Moderate

Which one of the following molecules shows a linear geometry?

Correct answer: C. HCN

  • A. H2O
  • B. Cl2O
  • C. HCN
  • D. C2H4

Explanation

The geometry of HCN (hydrogen cyanide) is linear. In HCN, the central carbon atom is bonded to a hydrogen atom and a nitrogen atom. The linear molecular geometry arises from the arrangement of the atoms, with the hydrogen and nitrogen atoms on opposite sides of the carbon atom, forming a straight line. This linear geometry results from the arrangement of the bonding and lone pairs of electrons around the carbon atom, leading to a linear shape with a bond angle of approximately 180 degrees.

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Chemical bonding explains molecular shape through VSEPR theory and distinguishes sigma bonds from pi bonds. Questions involve hybridization, bond angles, dipole moment and bond energy, including how electron-pair repulsion determines geometry and how bond polarity differs from the overall polarity of a molecule.

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