Q. The correct order of increasing bond angles in the following triatomic species is
A) NO₂⁺ < NO₂⁻ < NO₂
B) NO₂⁻ < NO₂⁺ < NO₂
C) NO₂⁻ < NO₂ < NO₂⁺
D) NO₂⁺ < NO₂ < NO₂⁻
Explanation
[Solution from source] NO₂⁺ has no non-bonding electrons on N and is linear (180°). NO₂ has a single unpaired electron on N (about 134°), and NO₂⁻ has a full lone pair that repels more strongly (about 115°). So the increasing order is NO₂⁻ < NO₂ < NO₂⁺. The reverse order wrongly treats the linear cation as the most bent. Answer (3).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.