Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules has a non-linear (bent) molecular geometry?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following factors most directly affects the shape of a molecule?
A
The boiling point of the molecule
B
The color of the molecule
C
The number of electron pairs around the central atom
D
The atomic mass of the central atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the shape of a molecule is primarily determined by the arrangement of electron pairs around the central atom, according to the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory.
Recall that electron pairs (bonding and lone pairs) repel each other and arrange themselves to minimize repulsion, which dictates the molecular geometry.
Recognize that factors like boiling point, color, or atomic mass do not directly influence the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule.
Focus on the number of electron pairs around the central atom as the key factor that determines the shape, because it controls how atoms are positioned in three-dimensional space.
Conclude that the correct answer is the number of electron pairs around the central atom, as this most directly affects molecular shape.
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