What is the vsepr model for CO2?

1 Answer

We can use VESPR theory to predict a linear shape for the molecule #CO_2# because of its #AX_2# status.

VESPR stands for valence shell electron pair repulsion. This theory basically says that bonding and non-bonding electron pairs of the central atom in a molecule will repel (push away from) each other in three dimensional space and this gives the molecules their shape.
We can use the following notations when examining a Lewis structure of a molecule.

A = central atom
X = peripheral atoms
E = non-bonding electron pairs of the central atom

#AX_2# = linear molecule
#AX_3# = trigonal planar
#AX_3E# = trigonal pyrimidal
#AX_2E_2# = bent
#AX_4# = tetrahedral molecule