Question

Which among the following would be a linear species?

• A. CO2
• B. H2O
• C. NH3
• D. CH4

Hint:

Using the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory (VSEPR), the linear shape occurs when there are two bonding regions (two atoms bonded to the central atom) and zero or three symmetrically arranged lone pairs (like in I3-).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The \(\text{I}_3^-\) ion exhibits a linear geometry due to its electronic arrangement. According to the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory:
The central iodine atom in \(\text{I}_3^-\) has three lone pairs of electrons and forms bonds with two outer iodine atoms.
The lone pairs arrange symmetrically to minimize electron repulsion, resulting in a bond angle of \(180^\circ\).
 This linear geometry is a characteristic of triatomic species with symmetric electron distribution.