To determine the correct molecular model for methanol ([tex]\(CH_3OH\)[/tex]), follow these steps:
1. Understand the molecular formula: Methanol has the formula [tex]\(CH_3OH\)[/tex]. This indicates the molecule consists of:
- 1 Carbon (C) atom
- 3 Hydrogen (H) atoms bonded to the Carbon
- 1 Oxygen (O) atom
- 1 additional Hydrogen (H) atom bonded to the Oxygen
2. Total atom count:
- Carbon (C): 1
- Hydrogen (H): 4 (3 bonded to Carbon and 1 bonded to Oxygen)
- Oxygen (O): 1
3. Color coding for atoms (as per the problem statement):
- Carbon (C) atoms are black.
- Oxygen (O) atoms are red.
- Hydrogen (H) atoms are white.
4. Visualizing the ball-and-stick model:
- Look for a model that has exactly 1 black ball (Carbon), 4 white balls (Hydrogen), and 1 red ball (Oxygen).
- Proper bonding connections:
- The Carbon (black) should be connected to 3 Hydrogen (white).
- The Oxygen (red) should have 1 Hydrogen (white) attached and be connected to the Carbon (black).
By identifying a model that fits these criteria, you would correctly identify the ball-and-stick model representing methanol ([tex]\(CH_3OH\)[/tex]). In conclusion, the model must have one black ball, one red ball, and four white balls connected in the described manner.
