A molecule of carbon dioxide (CO₂)is formed when one atom of carbon (atomic number 6)is covalently bonded with two atoms of oxygen (atomic number 8). What is the total number of electrons that must be shared between the carbon atom and the oxygen atoms in order to complete the outer electron shell of all three atoms?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The outer electron shell of carbon requires four electrons for completion, while each of the outer electron shells of oxygen requires two electrons. Therefore, a total of four electrons must be shared between carbon and the two oxygen atoms. Since each covalent bond represents the sharing of two electrons, two covalent bonds must be formed, requiring a total of four electrons to complete the outer electron shell of all three atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is D) 4.

A Molecule of Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)is Formed When One Atom