In which of the following is the bond angle highest?
— To determine the O-N-O bond angle, we need to analyze the hybridization and geometry of the central nitrogen atom in…
To determine the O-N-O bond angle, we need to analyze the hybridization and geometry of the central nitrogen atom in each species.
Step 1: Analyze NO2+
The NO2+ ion has a linear structure. The nitrogen atom is sp hybridized. It has two sigma bonds and no lone pairs. The O-N-O bond angle is .
Step 2: Analyze NO2
NO2 is a bent molecule with an odd number of electrons. The nitrogen atom is sp2 hybridized with one unpaired electron. The bond angle is approximately .
Step 3: Analyze NO2-
NO2- has a bent structure. The nitrogen atom is sp2 hybridized with one lone pair of electrons. The lone pair-bond pair repulsion is greater than bond pair-bond pair repulsion, reducing the bond angle from the ideal . The O-N-O bond angle is approximately .
Step 4: Analyze NO3-
NO3- has a trigonal planar structure. The nitrogen atom is sp2 hybridized with no lone pairs. The O-N-O bond angle is .
Step 5: Compare the bond angles
- NO2+: (linear)
- NO2: (bent)
- NO2-: (bent)
- NO3-: (trigonal planar)
Comparing these values, NO2+ has the highest O-N-O bond angle.
Option Analysis:
- A) NO2: Has an unpaired electron, leading to a bent structure with a bond angle of approximately . Incorrect.
- B) NO2+: Is linear with sp hybridization, resulting in a bond angle. Correct.
- C) NO2-: Has a lone pair on nitrogen, leading to a bent structure with a bond angle of approximately . Incorrect.
- D) NO3-: Is trigonal planar with sp2 hybridization and no lone pairs, resulting in a bond angle. Incorrect.
Correct Answer: (B)