Although both `CO_(2) & H_(2)O` are triatomic molecules, the shape of `H_(2)O` molecule is bent while that of `CO_(2)` is linear. Explain this on the basis of dipole moment.

Explanation

The bond moment of two `C=O` bonds in `CO_(2)` cancel each other, indicating the linear structure of `CO_(2)`. However, `H_(2)O` molecule has a net dipole moment `(mu ne0)`. Thus, bond moments of two O-H bonds do not cancel each other. As a result, `H_(2)O` has a bent structure.