Question:medium

The angular shape of ozone molecule $ (O_3 )$ consists of

Updated On: May 5, 2026
  • 1 sigma and 2 pi-bonds
  • 2 sigma and 2 pi-bonds
  • 1 sigma and 1 pi-bonds
  • 2 sigma and 1 pi-bonds
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

To determine the type and number of bonds in an ozone molecule (O_3), let's break down the structure and bonding of ozone:

  1. Ozone structure: Ozone is composed of three oxygen atoms and is known to have a resonance structure. Resonance structures are different ways of drawing the same molecule where the connectivity of atoms is the same but the distribution of electrons is different.
  2. Resonance forms: In ozone, there are two major resonance forms. In these forms, one oxygen atom forms a double bond with the central oxygen atom, and the other forms a single bond. The resonance hybrid is a blend of these forms.
  3. Bond types: In each resonance structure, we observe that one σ (sigma) bond connects the central oxygen atom to each of the terminal oxygens. Therefore, there are two σ bonds in total.
    • The double bond is comprised of 1 σ bond and 1 π (pi) bond. The single bond is only a σ bond.
  4. Counting the bonds: Since the π bond is delocalized (spread) due to resonance, it is counted as one for the whole molecule. Thus, the total is two σ bonds and one π bond.

So, the angular shape of the ozone molecule consists of 2 sigma and 1 pi-bonds. This explains why the correct answer is 2 sigma and 1 pi-bonds.

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