Multiple Choice
Which of the following models provides a three-dimensional representation of a molecule?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry of HBr?
A
Linear
B
Trigonal planar
C
Tetrahedral
D
Bent
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the central atom in the molecule HBr. Since HBr consists of hydrogen (H) and bromine (Br), bromine is the central atom because hydrogen can only form one bond.
Step 2: Determine the number of electron groups around the central atom (Br). Bromine forms one single bond with hydrogen and has three lone pairs of electrons, making a total of four electron groups.
Step 3: Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the electron geometry. Four electron groups around the central atom correspond to a tetrahedral electron geometry.
Step 4: Consider the molecular geometry, which depends on the positions of atoms only (ignoring lone pairs). Since there is only one bonded atom (H) and three lone pairs on Br, the shape formed by atoms is linear.
Step 5: Conclude that the molecular geometry of HBr is linear because the molecule consists of only two atoms connected by a single bond, and lone pairs do not affect the linear arrangement of these two atoms.
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