what is the geometry around each carbon in ethanoic acid

To determine the geometry around each carbon atom in ethanoic acid, we need to consider the molecular structure and the arrangement of the atoms.

Ethanoic acid (also known as acetic acid) has the chemical formula CH3COOH. It consists of two carbon atoms, four hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms.

The central carbon atom (denoted as C1) is bonded to three other atoms: one hydrogen atom (H1), one oxygen atom (O1) from the carboxyl group, and another carbon atom (C2) from the methyl group. The bond angles and arrangement of these atoms determine the geometry.

Here's how you can determine the geometry around each carbon atom:

1. Focus on the central carbon atom (C1):
a. C1 is connected to three atoms: H1, O1, and C2.
b. Since all three groups around C1 are different (H, O, C), the geometry is trigonal planar.
c. The bond angles around C1 are approximately 120 degrees.

2. Consider the carbon atom in the methyl group (C2):
a. C2 is connected to only three hydrogen atoms (H2, H3, H4).
b. Since all three groups around C2 are the same (H), the geometry is tetrahedral.
c. The bond angles around C2 are approximately 109.5 degrees.

In summary, the central carbon atom (C1) in ethanoic acid has a trigonal planar geometry, while the carbon atom in the methyl group (C2) has a tetrahedral geometry.