How many σ-bonds and π-bonds are in a CO2 molecule?

How many σ-bonds and π-bonds are in a CO2 molecule?

A) 4 σ-bonds and 0 π-bonds

B) 2 σ-bonds and 2 π-bonds

C) 2 σ-bonds and 4 π-bonds

D) 1 σ-bond and 2 π-bonds

E) 2 σ-bonds and 0 π-bonds

Solution: The correct Lewis dot structure for CO2 is shown below.

A single bond has 1 σ-bond. A double bond has 1 σ-bond and 1 π-bond. A triple bond has 1 σ-bond and 2 π-bonds.

Since CO2 has two double bonds, it has 2 sigma and 2 pi bonds total, B.