Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the O–S–O bond angle in the SO_2 molecule?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which molecular geometry best describes the shape of the ammonium ion, NH_4^+?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Trigonal pyramidal
C
Bent
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the ammonium ion (NH_4^+), which is nitrogen (N).
Determine the number of valence electrons for nitrogen and hydrogen atoms, then account for the positive charge by subtracting one electron.
Use the total valence electrons to draw the Lewis structure of NH_4^+, showing nitrogen bonded to four hydrogen atoms with no lone pairs on nitrogen.
Apply the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the molecular geometry based on the arrangement of bonding pairs around the central atom.
Since there are four bonding pairs and no lone pairs on nitrogen, conclude that the molecular geometry is tetrahedral.
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