Bond Angle Questions: Is it Applicable for Single Bonded Atoms?

In summary, a bond angle is the angle between two bonds in a molecule and can range from 0 to 180 degrees. It is determined by the type of bonds, number of bonding electron pairs, and repulsion between them. Single bonded atoms also have bond angles, typically at 109.5 degrees. Bond angles can affect a molecule's properties, such as shape, polarity, and reactivity. They can also be used to predict a molecule's geometry and overall properties.
  • #1
Queequeg
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When determining the bond angle of an atom, is it not applicable if you have an atom bonded to only one other atom? such as for CO2, would you only be able to write the angle for C, 180 degrees, but not for oxygen despite the lone pairs?
 
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  • #2
The bond angle is the angle between two bonds.
 
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  • #3
I would second that. In my experience, bond angles are always considered between well defined bonds.
 
  • #4
What is the bond angle in CO molecule?
 
  • #5


I can say that bond angles are applicable for single bonded atoms. The bond angle is a measurement of the angle between two bonds, and it is determined by the arrangement of atoms around a central atom. In the case of CO2, the bond angle between the carbon and each oxygen atom is 180 degrees, as you mentioned. However, the bond angle between the two oxygen atoms is still relevant, even though they are only bonded to one other atom. This is because the lone pairs on the oxygen atoms still contribute to the overall molecular geometry and affect the bond angle. Therefore, the bond angle between the two oxygen atoms in CO2 would be approximately 180 degrees, taking into account the repulsion from the lone pairs. In conclusion, bond angles are applicable for single bonded atoms and should be considered when determining the overall molecular geometry of a molecule.
 

1. What is a bond angle?

A bond angle is the angle between two bonds that connect the central atom to two other atoms in a molecule. It is measured in degrees and can range from 0 to 180 degrees.

2. How is bond angle determined?

Bond angle is determined by the type of bonds present, the number of bonding electron pairs, and the repulsion between these electron pairs. It can also be affected by the shape of the molecule and any lone pairs of electrons on the central atom.

3. Is bond angle applicable for single bonded atoms?

Yes, bond angle is applicable for single bonded atoms. The bond angle for a single bond is typically 109.5 degrees, which is the ideal tetrahedral angle for four bonding electron pairs.

4. How does bond angle affect a molecule's properties?

The bond angle can affect a molecule's properties, such as its shape, polarity, and reactivity. For example, molecules with larger bond angles tend to be more polar and have higher boiling points compared to molecules with smaller bond angles.

5. Can bond angle be used to predict a molecule's geometry?

Yes, bond angle can be used as a tool to predict a molecule's geometry. By knowing the bond angle, we can determine the arrangement of atoms in a molecule, which can help us predict its overall shape and properties.

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