Give the number of lone pairs around the central atom and the geometry of the ion ClO₂^-. A) 0 lone pairs, linear B) 1 lone pair, bent C) 2 lone pairs, bent D) 3 lone pairs, bent E) 3 lone pairs, linear

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The central atom in this ion is S. Counting the number of valence electrons on each atom (using the periodic table), we get a total of 28 electrons. When we draw the Lewis structure, we find that two of the electrons are in a lone pair on the S atom, and two are in a lone pair on the Cl atom. This gives us a total of 2 lone pairs around the central atom, which leads to a bent geometry. Therefore, the best choice is C.

Give the Number of Lone Pairs Around the Central Atom