Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry of HCN (hydrogen cyanide)?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry of CH2O (formaldehyde)?
A
Linear
B
Bent
C
Tetrahedral
D
Trigonal planar
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule CH2O, which is carbon (C).
Determine the number of regions of electron density (bonding and lone pairs) around the central carbon atom. Carbon forms two single bonds with hydrogen atoms and one double bond with oxygen, totaling three regions of electron density.
Recall that three regions of electron density around a central atom arrange themselves in a trigonal planar geometry to minimize electron repulsion, according to VSEPR theory.
Note that since there are no lone pairs on the central carbon atom, the molecular geometry matches the electron geometry, which is trigonal planar.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of CH2O is trigonal planar, not linear, bent, or tetrahedral.
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