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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the applicability of bond angles in molecules, particularly focusing on cases where an atom is bonded to only one other atom. Participants explore whether bond angles can be defined in such scenarios, using carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) as examples.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the applicability of bond angles for atoms bonded to only one other atom, suggesting that in CO2, the angle can only be defined for carbon at 180 degrees, not for oxygen due to lone pairs.
  • Another participant asserts that bond angles are defined as the angle between two bonds, implying that a bond angle requires at least two bonds to be meaningful.
  • A third participant supports the idea that bond angles are typically considered between well-defined bonds, reinforcing the previous point.
  • A separate inquiry is made regarding the bond angle in carbon monoxide (CO), indicating a need for clarification on this specific case.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the applicability of bond angles for single-bonded atoms, with some asserting that bond angles require two bonds, while others suggest that angles can still be defined under certain conditions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific case of CO.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions about the definitions of bond angles and the role of lone pairs that are not fully explored. The discussion does not clarify how lone pairs influence the definition of bond angles in single-bonded scenarios.

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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The bond angle is the angle between two bonds.
 
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I would second that. In my experience, bond angles are always considered between well defined bonds.
 
What is the bond angle in CO molecule?
 

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