Question

The ratio of lone pair of electrons to bond pair of electrons in ozone molecule is:

• A. 2:1
• B. 3:2
• C. 2:3
• D. 1:2

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The correct option is: (A): 2:1.

The ozone molecule (O3) has a bent molecular geometry, and its electronic structure involves both lone pairs of electrons and bond pairs of electrons. The ratio of lone pair electrons to bond pair electrons in the ozone molecule is indeed 2:1. Let's explore the electronic structure of ozone and justify this ratio:

Molecular Geometry: Ozone (O3) has a bent molecular geometry. This means that the three oxygen atoms are not arranged in a straight line; instead, the central oxygen atom is bonded to the other two oxygen atoms, resulting in an angle less than 180 degrees.

Electron Distribution: In the Lewis structure of ozone, each oxygen atom forms a double bond with the central oxygen atom. This leaves a lone pair of electrons on the central oxygen atom.

Lone Pairs of Electrons: The central oxygen atom in the ozone molecule has two lone pairs of electrons. These lone pairs are not involved in any chemical bonding and are located in the regions of space around the oxygen atom where they repel the bonding electron pairs, causing the bent molecular geometry.

Bond Pairs of Electrons: Each oxygen atom in the ozone molecule is involved in two sigma (σ) bonds—one with the central oxygen atom and one with another terminal oxygen atom. These sigma bonds are formed by the overlap of atomic orbitals, resulting in a shared pair of electrons.