Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of PBr_3?
33
views
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of SO_3^{2-} (sulfite ion)?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Bent
C
Tetrahedral
D
Trigonal pyramidal
Verified step by step guidance1
Determine the Lewis structure of the sulfite ion, SO_3^{2-}. Count the total valence electrons: sulfur has 6, each oxygen has 6, and add 2 extra electrons for the 2- charge.
Draw the skeletal structure with sulfur as the central atom bonded to three oxygen atoms. Distribute the electrons to satisfy the octet rule for each atom, placing lone pairs where necessary.
Count the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs around the central sulfur atom. This will help determine the electron pair geometry.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the molecular geometry based on the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs. Lone pairs affect the shape by repelling bonding pairs.
Identify the molecular geometry: with three bonding pairs and one lone pair on sulfur, the shape is trigonal pyramidal, not trigonal planar or tetrahedral.
1:33mWatch next
Master Molecular Geometry with Two Electron Groups with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Molecular Geometry practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations