MCAT General Chemistry Question 286: Answer and Explanation

Home > MCAT Test > MCAT general chemistry practice tests

Test Information

Use your browser's back button to return to your test results.
Do more MCAT general chemistry practice tests.

Question: 286

5. The shape of the carbonate ion is:

A. trigonal planar and the carbon atom is sp³ hybridized.
B. trigonal planar and the carbon atom is sp² hybridized.
C. tetrahedral and the carbon atom is sp² hybridized.
D. tetrahedral and the carbon atom is sp³ hybridized.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B The carbonate ion is trigonal planar and the carbon atom is sp² hybridized:

With three total substituents, the carbon atom cannot be sp³ hybridized, eliminating choices A and D. Tetrahedral shapes require four substituents, eliminating choice C.

Previous Next