O Levels Chemistry (5070)•5070/12/M/J/20
Explanation
Shared Electrons in CO2 Lewis Structure
Steps:
- CO2 formula is O=C=O with carbon double-bonded to two oxygens.
- Each double bond shares 4 electrons (two pairs).
- Two double bonds exist in the molecule.
- Total shared electrons: 2 × 4 = 8.
Why C is correct:
- Lewis structure of CO2 shows two C=O double bonds, each sharing 4 electrons for a total of 8, following the octet rule.
Why the others are wrong:
- A. 2: Represents one single bond, but CO2 uses double bonds.
- B. 4: Accounts for one double bond only, ignoring the second.
- D. 12: Overcounts as if triple bonds were present, which they are not.
Final answer: C
Topic: Simple molecules and covalent bonds
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