Final answer:
The structure of solid carbon dioxide (dry ice) is best represented by CO₂, where each carbon atom is double-bonded to two oxygen atoms, forming molecules with very weak intermolecular forces allowing direct sublimation from solid to gas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The structure of solid carbon dioxide, commonly known as dry ice, would best be represented by CO₂. In dry ice, each carbon atom is double-bonded to two oxygen atoms, forming single CO₂ molecules. These molecules are held together in the solid state by very weak intermolecular forces, which is why dry ice sublimes, going directly from the solid to the gas phase without passing through the liquid phase. Additionally, because it sublimes at − 78.5°C, it has practical applications like the preservation of medical samples and generating cooling effects.