Chapter 8, Problem 12STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Whether the given statement and explanation given for the statement is correct or not needs to be identified.

Concept Introduction: A covalent bond is formed between two atoms when they share one or more electron pairs. If one electron pair is shared, the bond formed is a single bond, if two electron pairs are shared, the bond formed is a double bond and if three electron pairs are shared, the bond formed will be a triple bond.

Explanation of Solution

In a carbon monoxide molecule, there is a covalent bond between the carbon and oxygen atom. Thus, carbon and oxygen share electron pair/s to bond with each other.

Here, the number of valence electrons in the carbon atom is 4 and that in the oxygen atom is 6. The molecule has a triple bond. Two bonds are formed by sharing of two electron pairs between carbon and oxygen atom. The third bond is formed when the remaining electron pair on the oxygen atom is shared with the carbon atom.

Thus, it is correct that carbon and oxygen atoms have a triple bond between them in carbon monoxide molecule but the explanation is incorrect. The correct explanation is that an octet of carbon is not completed after the formation of two bonds. It still needs two electrons to complete its octet.

Therefore, the given statement is true but the explanation is incorrect.