Formaldehyde has a wide range of uses, many of them in manufacturing. Its chemical formula is CH2O. The model below represents formaldehyde.

Question

Based on the model, which statement best describes formaldehyde molecules?
A.
Formaldehyde molecules do not form an extended structure and can freely move past each other.
B.
Formaldehyde molecules form an extended structure and cannot freely move past each other.
C.
Formaldehyde molecules form a repeating pattern and can freely move past each other.
D.
Formaldehyde molecules do not form a repeating pattern and cannot freely move past each other.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

A. Formaldehyde molecules do not form an extended structure and can freely move past each other.

Formaldehyde (CH2O) molecules are small and typically exist in a gaseous state or as a liquid at room temperature. They do not form a solid crystalline structure, which means they can move freely past each other.