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Multiple Choice
Determine the bond angle for the thiocyanate ion, SCN–.
A
180°
B
90°
C
120°
D
109.5°
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the central atom in the thiocyanate ion, SCN–. In this case, the central atom is carbon (C).
Consider the molecular geometry around the central atom. The thiocyanate ion is linear, which is typical for molecules with two atoms bonded to a central atom and no lone pairs on the central atom.
Recall that linear geometry results in a bond angle of 180°. This is because the atoms are arranged in a straight line, maximizing the distance between them.
Understand that the linear geometry is due to the sp hybridization of the central carbon atom, which involves mixing one s orbital and one p orbital to form two equivalent sp hybrid orbitals.
Conclude that the bond angle for the thiocyanate ion, SCN–, is 180°, consistent with its linear geometry.