Question

The number of molecules/ions that show linear geometry among the following is _____. SO₂, BeCl₂, CO₂, N₃⁻, NO₂, F₂O, XeF₂, NO₂⁺, I₃⁻, O₃

Hint:

Remember the hybridization and geometry of molecules and ions. Linear geometry occurs when the central atom has sp hybridization or sp³d hybridization with lone pairs in equatorial positions.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 6

To determine the number of molecules/ions that exhibit linear geometry, we need to analyze each species and determine its molecular geometry based on the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory. The configurations for these molecules/ions are analyzed as follows:

• SO₂: Bent geometry due to one lone pair on the sulfur atom.
• BeCl₂: Linear geometry. Beryllium has no lone pairs and is bonded to two chlorine atoms.
• CO₂: Linear geometry. Carbon has no lone pairs; double bonded to each oxygen atom.
• N₃⁻: Linear geometry as the resonance structures contribute to a linear arrangement.
• NO₂: Bent geometry due to the presence of a lone electron.
• F₂O: Bent geometry due to two lone pairs on the oxygen atom.
• XeF₂: Linear geometry, due to three lone pairs on xenon that arrange themselves to minimize repulsion.
• NO₂⁺: Linear geometry. Nitronium ion has no lone pairs on nitrogen.
• I₃⁻: Linear geometry, with iodine atoms bonded symmetrically around a central iodine atom, compensated by 3 lone pairs.
• O₃: Bent geometry due to a lone pair on the central oxygen atom.

Count of linear geometry species: BeCl₂, CO₂, N₃⁻, XeF₂, NO₂⁺, I₃⁻; totaling to 6.

The calculated number correctly falls within the provided solution range of 6 to 6.

Total number of linear molecules/ions: 6