Answer: Two equal C=O dipoles point in opposite directions and cancel.
- A Two equal C=O dipoles point in opposite directions and cancel
- B There is no electronegativity difference between carbon and oxygen
- C The carbon atom itself carries no partial charge in any bond
- D CO<sub>2</sub> exists as a non-polar solid at room temperature
Correct answer: A. Two equal C=O dipoles point in opposite directions and cancel
Explanation: CO<sub>2</sub> is linear; the two C=O bond dipoles are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, giving zero net dipole.
VSEPR theory predicts molecular shape from the number of bonding and lone electron pairs around the central atom.
Concept context
Understand how atoms join to form molecules. Covers ionic and covalent bonding, VSEPR theory, hybridization (sp, sp², sp³), molecular orbital theory, bond polarity, and intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonding.
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