CO₂

Definition

CO₂ is the chemical formula for carbon dioxide—a colorless gas composed of one carbon atom bonded with two oxygen atoms. It is known as a linear molecule due to its specific molecular geometry.

Related terms

Lewis Structure:

A Lewis structure is a diagram illustrating how atoms are connected within a molecule using symbols for individual elements and dots representing valence electrons.

Double Bond:

In CO₂, there exists a double bond between carbon and each oxygen atom, meaning they share not just one but two pairs of electrons.

Nonpolar Molecule: CO₂ is a nonpolar molecule because the electronegativity difference between carbon and oxygen atoms is minimal, resulting in even electron distribution.