Step 1: Identify the Molecular Geometry of Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde (HCHO) is a simple aldehyde with the chemical structure H-C-H, where the carbon atom is double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O) and single-bonded to two hydrogen atoms. The central carbon atom is bonded to three atoms and has no lone pairs, which suggests a trigonal planar geometry.
Step 2: Determine the Bond Angles for Trigonal Planar Geometry
In a trigonal planar molecular geometry, the bond angles around the central atom are typically 120°. This is because the atoms are arranged in a plane, and the angles between them are equal to minimize repulsion according to VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory.
Step 3: Select the Correct Answer
Given the options:
180°: This angle is typical for linear geometry, not applicable here.
109.5°: This angle is typical for tetrahedral geometry, not applicable here.
120°: This angle is typical for trigonal planar geometry, which matches the structure of formaldehyde.
Final Answer
The appropriate bond angles in formaldehyde are \(\boxed{120^\circ}\).