What is the electron geometry of H2O?

• A. Linear
• B. Tetrahedral
• C. Bent
• D. Trigonal planar

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the central atom in the molecule H2O, which is oxygen (O).
2. Determine the number of electron groups around the central atom. Oxygen has two bonded hydrogen atoms and two lone pairs, making a total of four electron groups.
3. Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the electron geometry based on the number of electron groups. Four electron groups correspond to a tetrahedral electron geometry.
4. Recognize that while the electron geometry is tetrahedral, the molecular shape (considering only atoms) is bent due to the two lone pairs.
5. Conclude that the electron geometry of H2O is tetrahedral, even though the molecular shape is bent.