Which of the following molecules has the highest X-A-X bond angle?
The correct answer is A) CS2 > CF4 > SCI2. The bond angle in a molecule is determined by the arrangement of the atoms and the electron pairs around the central atom. In this case, we are comparing the X-A-X bond angles in CS2, CF4, and SCI2.
Explanation:
CS2: Carbon disulfide (CS2) has a linear molecular geometry with the sulfur atoms (X) on either side of the carbon atom (A). Since it has a linear geometry, the X-A-X bond angle is 180 degrees.
CF4: Carbon tetrafluoride (CF4) has a tetrahedral molecular geometry with the four fluorine atoms (X) surrounding the central carbon atom (A). The bond angles in a tetrahedral geometry are all 109.5 degrees, including the X-A-X bond angle.
SCI2: Disulfur diiodide (SCI2) has a bent molecular geometry due to the presence of two lone pairs on the central sulfur atom (A). The X-A-X bond angle in a bent geometry is less than 109.5 degrees.
Therefore, the order of decreasing X-A-X bond angle is CS2 > CF4 > SCI2.