Question

conceptual connection 5.4 - enhanced - with feedback
part a
which molecule could have an expanded octet?
h₂so₄
h₂co₃
hno₂

Explanation:

• Expanded octet occurs when an atom has more than 8 valence electrons.
• For \(H_2SO_4\), sulfur (\(S\)) is in the third period. It can use its \(3d\) orbitals to accommodate extra electrons. In \(H_2SO_4\), the sulfur atom forms multiple bonds and has more than 8 electrons around it.
• For \(H_2CO_3\), carbon (\(C\)) is in the second period (\(n = 2\)) and has no \(d\) orbitals available to expand its octet.
• For \(HNO_2\), nitrogen (\(N\)) is in the second period (\(n=2\)) and has no \(d\) orbitals available to expand its octet.

Answer:

\(\ce{H2SO4}\)