Which molecule has the shape of a completed tetrahedron?

• A. Water (H₂O)
• B. Hydrogen gas (H₂)
• C. Oxygen gas (O₂)
• D. Methane (CH₄)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of molecular geometry: A tetrahedral shape in chemistry refers to a central atom bonded to four other atoms, positioned at the corners of a tetrahedron.
2. Identify the central atom in methane (CH4): Methane consists of one carbon atom (C) as the central atom and four hydrogen atoms (H) bonded to it.
3. Visualize the spatial arrangement: In a tetrahedral geometry, the four hydrogen atoms are symmetrically arranged around the central carbon atom, forming a three-dimensional shape.
4. Compare with other molecules: Water (H2O) has a bent shape due to the two hydrogen atoms bonded to oxygen and the presence of lone pairs. Hydrogen gas (H2) and oxygen gas (O2) are diatomic molecules, meaning they consist of two atoms bonded together, not forming a tetrahedral shape.
5. Conclude that methane (CH4) is the molecule with a tetrahedral shape, as it fits the criteria of having a central atom bonded to four other atoms in a symmetrical three-dimensional arrangement.