Question:medium

Which among the following would be a linear species?

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Using the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory (VSEPR), the linear shape occurs when there are two bonding regions (two atoms bonded to the central atom) and zero or three symmetrically arranged lone pairs (like in I3-).
Updated On: Jan 17, 2026
  • CO2
  • H2O
  • NH3
  • CH4
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The \(\text{I}_3^-\) ion adopts a linear geometry, explained by the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory.
The central iodine atom in \(\text{I}_3^-\) possesses three lone pairs and bonds with two outer iodine atoms.
These lone pairs are symmetrically arranged to minimize electron repulsion, yielding a \(180^\circ\) bond angle.
This linear arrangement is typical for triatomic species with symmetrical electron distribution.

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