Answer: The shape of the carbonate ion (\( \text{CO}_3^{2-} \)) is trigonal planar.
Explanation: The carbonate ion (\( \text{CO}_3^{2-} \)) consists of one carbon atom centrally bonded to three oxygen atoms. To determine its shape, we need to consider its Lewis structure and the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory.
Steps:
- Draw the Lewis Structure:
- Carbon (C) is the central atom.
- Carbon has 4 valence electrons, and each oxygen (O) has 6 valence electrons.
- The ion has an overall charge of -2, adding 2 more electrons to the total count.
- Total valence electrons = 4 (C) + 3 × 6 (O) + 2 (charge) = 24 electrons.
- Distribute Electrons:
- Form single bonds between the carbon and each oxygen atom, using 6 electrons (2 per bond).
- Distribute the remaining 18 electrons to satisfy the octet rule for the oxygen atoms.
- One of the oxygen atoms will form a double bond with carbon to minimize formal charges, resulting in resonance structures.
- Determine the Shape:
- The central carbon atom is bonded to three oxygen atoms and has no lone pairs.
- According to VSEPR theory, the electron pairs will arrange themselves as far apart as possible, resulting in a trigonal planar shape.
The trigonal planar shape is characterized by 120-degree bond angles between the oxygen atoms. This geometry is consistent with the resonance-stabilized structure of the carbonate ion.