Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of CH4?
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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 a water (H_2O) molecule?
A
Bent
B
Tetrahedral
C
Trigonal planar
D
Linear
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the water molecule, which is oxygen (O).
Determine the number of electron groups around the central atom. Oxygen in H_2O has two bonded hydrogen atoms and two lone pairs, making a total of four electron groups.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the electron geometry. Four electron groups around oxygen correspond to a tetrahedral electron geometry.
Consider the effect of lone pairs on molecular shape. Lone pairs repel more strongly than bonding pairs, causing the bonded atoms to be pushed closer together.
Conclude that the molecular geometry, which describes the shape formed by the atoms (not including lone pairs), is bent due to the two lone pairs on oxygen.
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