Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why ammonia (NH_3) is not a planar molecule?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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What is the molecular geometry of PH_3?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Bent
C
Trigonal pyramidal
D
Trigonal planar
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in PH\_3, which is phosphorus (P).
Determine the number of valence electrons for phosphorus (5) and hydrogen (1 each), then calculate the total valence electrons in PH\_3.
Draw the Lewis structure of PH\_3, placing phosphorus in the center bonded to three hydrogen atoms, and account for lone pairs on phosphorus.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to analyze the electron pairs around phosphorus: three bonding pairs and one lone pair.
Based on VSEPR, predict the molecular geometry considering the lone pair repulsion, which leads to a trigonal pyramidal shape rather than tetrahedral or trigonal planar.
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