Question

Which of the following is not true about structure of carbon dioxide?

• A. In $C{O}_2$, carbon is sp-hybridised
• B. C forms two sigma bonds one with each oxygen atom and two $p\pi -p\pi$ bonds
• C. $C{O}_2$ is a linear covalent compound
• D. It is a polar molecule

Answer 1

The correct option is D It is a polar molecule

The C atom undergoes sp hybridisation. Two sp hybridised orbitals of carbon atom overlap with two p orbitals of oxygen to make two sigma bonds.

Other two electrons are involved in pπ - pπ bonding with oxygen atom.

$C{O}_2$ is a linear molecule and the oxygen atoms on each end are symmetrical. Polarity results from an unequal sharing of valence electrons. Because of this symmetry, there is no region of unequal sharing and thus, $C{O}_2$ is a non polar molecule. Hence, the correct answer is option (d).