Which statement correctly describes the basic principle of VSEPR theory?

• A. Atoms in a molecule always arrange themselves in a straight line regardless of electron pairs.
• B. Molecular shapes are determined solely by the number of protons in the central atom.
• C. Bond angles in molecules are determined only by the atomic masses of the atoms involved.
• D. Electron pairs around a central atom arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that VSEPR stands for Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory, which is used to predict the shapes of molecules based on electron pair interactions.
2. Recognize that the key idea of VSEPR theory is that electron pairs (bonding and lone pairs) around a central atom repel each other and therefore arrange themselves to be as far apart as possible.
3. Note that this repulsion minimizes the energy of the molecule and determines the molecular geometry, rather than factors like atomic mass or number of protons.
4. Recall that the arrangement of atoms in a molecule is influenced by the positions of electron pairs, not just the atoms themselves, so the shape depends on electron pair repulsions.
5. Conclude that the correct description of VSEPR theory is: Electron pairs around a central atom arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion.