Is CO2 a Molecular Compound?

Yes, CO2, or carbon dioxide, is indeed a molecular compound. It consists of one carbon atom covalently bonded to two oxygen atoms. This molecular structure forms due to the sharing of electron pairs between the atoms, which is characteristic of molecular compounds.

The molecule is linear in shape, with bond angles of approximately 180 degrees, which further emphasizes its simple molecular nature. In addition, CO2 is a gas at room temperature and pressure, which is another common trait of many molecular compounds.

Understanding whether a compound is molecular helps in recognizing its physical properties and behavior. For CO2, its molecular composition leads to its roles in various processes, such as photosynthesis in plants and its impact as a greenhouse gas in Earth’s atmosphere.

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