Which of the following is a molecular compound?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3 i.e. CO2
Among the given options, CO₂ (Carbon dioxide) is a molecular compound. It consists of covalent bonds where carbon shares electrons with oxygen atoms, forming discrete molecules. In contrast, MgSO₄ (Magnesium sulfate) and NaCl (Sodium chloride) are ionic compounds made of ions, while CaO (Calcium oxide) is also ionic in nature. Molecular compounds are characterized by covalent bonding and exist as independent molecules, whereas ionic compounds form crystalline lattices with electrostatic attractions between ions.