Which bond angle, `theta` would result in the maximum dipole moment for the triatomic molecule `XY_2` ?

Options

A. `90^(@)`
B. `120^(@)`
C. `150^(@)`
D. `180^(@)`

Answer

a

Explanation

The dipole moment of two dipole inclined at an
angle ` theta ` is given by the equation,
` mu = sqrt(X^(2) + Y^(2) + 2XY cos theta )`
` cos 90 = 0 `. As the angle increases from 90-180, the
value of cos ` theta ` becomes more and more negative and
hence resultant decrases .Thus . dipole moment is maximum when ` theta = 90^(@)` .