Question
The correct order of increasing bond angles in the following species is:
Cl₂O < ClO₂ < ClO₂⁻
ClO₂ < Cl₂O < ClO₂⁻
Cl₂O < ClO₂⁻ < ClO₂
ClO₂⁻ < Cl₂O < ClO₂
Analyze (Chlorine Dioxide): The central Cl atom has 7 valence electrons. It forms double bonds with two O atoms and has one unpaired electron (odd electron species). The repulsion from a single odd electron is less than that of a full lone pair. The hybridization is effectively with the odd electron in an orbital. The bond angle is approximately 117.6° (close to 120°).
Analyze (Dichlorine Monoxide): The central atom is Oxygen ( hybridized). It has 2 bond pairs (with Cl) and 2 lone pairs. Normally, 2 lone pairs would compress the angle (as in , 104.5°). However, the Chlorine atoms are large and bulky, leading to significant steric repulsion (van der Waals repulsion) which opens up the bond angle to approximately 110.9° (greater than the tetrahedral angle of 109.5°).
Analyze (Chlorite Ion): The central atom is Chlorine ( hybridized). It has 2 bond pairs (with O) and 2 lone pairs. The strong lone pair-lone pair repulsion on the central Chlorine atom compresses the bond angle. The angle is experimentally found to be approximately 110–111°.
Conclusion: Comparing the specific values often used in this context ( and ), the order is often debated. However, based on the standard answer key for this AIPMT 2010 question, the order follows , implying the lone pair repulsion in the chlorite ion compresses the angle slightly more than the net result of steric hindrance in .
This question aligns with the NEET CHEMISTRY syllabus, specifically targeting concepts from Organic Chemistry – Some Basic Principles and Techniques . Mastering this topic is crucial for scoring well in the upcoming medical entrance examinations. Solving conceptually related problems will help you understand the nuances of these concepts and improve your problem-solving speed.
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