Linear molecular geometry

Idealised structure of a compound with linear geometry.

Structure of beryllium fluoride (BeF₂), a compound with a linear geometry.

In chemistry, the Linear molecular geometry describes the arrangement of three or more atoms placed at an expected bond angle of 180°. Linear organic molecules, e.g. acetylene (HC≡CH), are often described by invoking sp orbital hybridization for the carbon centers. Many linear molecules exist; prominent examples include carbon dioxide (O=C=O), hydrogen cyanide (HC≡N), and xenon difluoride (XeF₂). Linear anions include azide (N₃⁻) and thiocyanate (SCN⁻). Linear cations include nitronium ion (NO₂⁺).

See also

• AXE method
• Molecular geometry

External links

• Chem| Chemistry, Structures, and 3D Molecules
• Indiana University Molecular Structure Center
• Interactive molecular examples for point groups
• Molecular Modeling
• Animated Trigonal Planar Visual