How many lone pairs are in CO2?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the number of lone pairs present in a carbon dioxide (CO2) molecule. To understand this, we will examine the Lewis structure of CO2 and identify the bonding and lone pairs of electrons.
Answer
4 lone pairs
In the CO2 molecule, there are 2 lone pairs on each oxygen atom, totaling 4 lone pairs.
Answer for screen readers
In the CO2 molecule, there are 2 lone pairs on each oxygen atom, totaling 4 lone pairs.
More Information
The CO2 molecule is linear and symmetrical, with 2 lone pairs on each oxygen atom.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming carbon also has lone pairs. Remember, in CO2, only oxygen atoms have lone pairs.
Sources
- How many lone pairs are present in a molecule of carbon dioxide? - socratic.org
- Lewis Structure of Carbon Dioxide - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- How many lone pairs are there in CO2? - socratic.org
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