Multiple Choice
Which electron geometry corresponds to a molecule with the general formula AX3?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Electron Geometry
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What is the electron geometry around the nitrogen atom in NH_3?
A
Linear
B
Trigonal pyramidal
C
Tetrahedral
D
Trigonal planar
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in NH_3, which is nitrogen (N).
Determine the number of electron groups around the nitrogen atom. In NH_3, nitrogen is bonded to three hydrogen atoms and has one lone pair of electrons, making a total of four electron groups.
Recall that the electron geometry considers both bonding pairs and lone pairs of electrons around the central atom. Four electron groups correspond to a tetrahedral electron geometry.
Understand that while the molecular shape (based on atoms only) is trigonal pyramidal due to the lone pair, the electron geometry includes the lone pair and is therefore tetrahedral.
Conclude that the electron geometry around the nitrogen atom in NH_3 is tetrahedral.
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