Question

four molecule models are shown.
model 1 model 2 model 3 model 4
which molecule is most likely
represented by model 1?
☐ oxygen gas, represented by the chemical
formula o2
☐ hydrogen chloride, represented by the
chemical formula hcl
☐ sodium, represented by the chemical symbol
na
☐ sand, represented by the chemical formula
sio2

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze Model 1

Model 1 shows molecules composed of two identical atoms (diatomic molecules).

Step2: Analyze each option

• Oxygen gas (O₂): Diatomic molecule (two O atoms), exists as gas with diatomic molecules.
• Hydrogen chloride (HCl): Contains two different atoms (H and Cl), not diatomic with identical atoms.
• Sodium (Na): Monatomic (single Na atom), not diatomic.
• Sand (SiO₂): Network solid, not composed of discrete diatomic molecules.

Answer:

A. oxygen gas, represented by the chemical formula O₂