Lewis Dot Structure of CO2

Steps:

• Determine valence electrons: C has 4, each O has 6, total 16.
• Arrange atoms linearly as O-C-O to minimize repulsion.
• Form two double bonds (4 shared pairs) to satisfy octets.
• Depict with dots/crosses: C shares 2 electrons with each O, lone pairs on O.

Why C is correct:

• Shows O=C=O with two double bonds, fulfilling octet rule (8 electrons around each atom) per Lewis structure rules.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Depicts single bonds, violating octet for C (only 4 electrons).
• B: Shows uneven bonding, like triple bond to one O, breaking linear symmetry.
• D: Represents O-O-C or incorrect lone pairs, not matching CO2 formula.

Final answer: C