The correct order of increasing bond angles in the following triatomic species is

Options

A. `NO_2^(+) lt NO_2 lt NO_2^(-)`
B. `NO_2^(+) lt NO_2^(-) lt NO_2`
C. `NO_2^(-) lt NO_2^(+) lt NO_2`
D. `NO_2^(-) lt NO_2 lt NO_2^(+)`

Answer

D

Explanation

`NO_2^(-)` is `sp^2` hybridized with one lone pair of electrons. `NO_2` can be said as partially `sp^2` hybridized due to a single electron with N.
`NO_2^(+)` is sp hybridized.