The O₂ molecule breaks apart at lower wavelengths than the O₃ molecule.What is the main reason for this? (Hint: Draw the Lewis structures. ) A)O₂ is more reactive than O₃ B)O₃ is more reactive than O₂ C)The average bond in O₃ is shorter and stronger than that of O₂ D)The average bond in O₂ is shorter and stronger than that of O₃

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To determine the answer, we need to compare the Lewis structures of O₂ and O₃. We can see that both molecules have the same number of atoms and the same types of bonds between the atoms. However, O₃ has an additional oxygen atom attached to one of the sulfur atoms. By adding an oxygen atom, the average bond length in O₃ will increase because the bond is longer between oxygen and sulfur compared to the bond between sulfur and carbon, while the bond strength will decrease because the bond energy between oxygen and sulfur is weaker than that of sulfur and carbon. These factors will contribute to the O₃ molecule having a lower break apart energy than the O₂ molecule. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

The O2 Molecule Breaks Apart at Lower Wavelengths Than the O3

The O₂ Molecule Breaks Apart at Lower Wavelengths Than the O₃