Question

9 multiple choice 3 points which of the following correctly matches each molecule with its predicted geometry according to vsepr theory? co₂ - trigonal planar; bf₃ - linear; h₂o - tetrahedral co₂ - linear; bf₃ - trigonal planar; h₂o - bent co₂ - linear; bf₃ - trigonal pyramidal; h₂o - trigonal planar co₂ - bent; bf₃ - tetrahedral; h₂o - linear clear my selection

Explanation:

• For \(CO_2\):
• The central \(C\) atom has \(2\) bonding pairs and \(0\) lone pairs. According to VSEPR theory, it has a linear geometry (\(O = C=O\)).
• For \(BF_3\):
• The central \(B\) atom has \(3\) bonding pairs and \(0\) lone pairs. So, it has a trigonal planar geometry.
• For \(H_2O\):
• The central \(O\) atom has \(2\) bonding pairs and \(2\) lone pairs. Due to the repulsion between lone pairs and bonding pairs, it has a bent (or V - shaped) geometry.

Answer:

\(CO_2\) - linear; \(BF_3\) - trigonal planar; \(H_2O\) - bent