Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry of HCN?
16
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 BeCl_2?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Linear
C
Bent
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule, which is beryllium (Be) in BeCl_2.
Determine the number of valence electrons for the central atom: beryllium has 2 valence electrons.
Count the number of atoms bonded to the central atom: there are 2 chlorine atoms bonded to beryllium.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the shape. Since there are 2 bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the central atom, the electron pairs will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion in a straight line.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of BeCl_2 is linear, with a bond angle of approximately 180 degrees.
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