Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors contribute to the observed molecular geometry around a given atom?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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What is the molecular geometry of ammonia (NH_3)?
A
Trigonal pyramidal
B
Trigonal planar
C
Tetrahedral
D
Bent
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in ammonia (NH_3), which is nitrogen (N).
Determine the number of valence electrons around the nitrogen atom. Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons, and each hydrogen contributes 1 electron, for a total of 8 electrons to consider.
Draw the Lewis structure of NH_3, placing three hydrogen atoms bonded to nitrogen and one lone pair of electrons remaining on nitrogen.
Count the regions of electron density (bonding pairs and lone pairs) around the nitrogen atom. There are 4 regions: 3 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair.
Use the VSEPR theory to predict the molecular geometry. With 4 regions of electron density and one lone pair, the shape is trigonal pyramidal.
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