Which of the following statements regarding ozone is not correct ?a)Th...
Understanding Ozone and Its Properties
Ozone (O3) is a triatomic molecule composed of three oxygen atoms. Its unique properties and structure distinguish it from molecular oxygen (O2). Among the options provided, statement 'C' is incorrect. Here’s why:
Ozone Molecule Structure
- Ozone has an angular or bent shape due to the presence of a lone pair of electrons on the central oxygen atom.
- It forms a V-shaped structure with bond angles of approximately 117 degrees.
Bonding and Resonance
- Ozone is indeed a resonance hybrid of two structures. This means that it can be represented by multiple Lewis structures, which contribute to its actual structure.
- The resonance stabilizes the molecule and accounts for the equal bond lengths observed in ozone.
Oxygen-Oxygen Bond Length
- Statement 'C' claims that the Oxygen-Oxygen bond length in ozone is identical to that of molecular oxygen. This is incorrect.
- The bond length in ozone is longer than that in molecular oxygen due to the nature of the bonding and resonance. In O2, the bond is a double bond, while in ozone, the bond characteristics are influenced by resonance, resulting in longer bond lengths.
Applications of Ozone
- Ozone is widely used as a germicide and disinfectant. It purifies air and water, making it effective in sanitation processes.
- Its strong oxidizing properties allow it to kill bacteria and deactivate viruses, highlighting its importance in health and safety.
In conclusion, option 'C' is incorrect because the bond lengths in ozone and molecular oxygen are not the same, reflecting the unique characteristics of ozone's molecular structure.