Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the shape of the 2p atomic orbitals?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which VSEPR geometry is most likely for the carbon atom in a transition state where it is bonded to four atoms and has no lone pairs?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Linear
C
Trigonal planar
D
Trigonal bipyramidal
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the number of regions of electron density around the central atom (carbon). Since it is bonded to four atoms and has no lone pairs, there are four regions of electron density.
Recall that VSEPR theory predicts molecular geometry based on minimizing electron pair repulsions around the central atom.
For four regions of electron density with no lone pairs, the electron pairs arrange themselves as far apart as possible in three-dimensional space.
The geometry that corresponds to four bonding groups and no lone pairs is tetrahedral, with bond angles close to 109.5°.
Compare this with other options: linear (2 regions), trigonal planar (3 regions), and trigonal bipyramidal (5 regions), confirming tetrahedral is the correct geometry for four bonded atoms and no lone pairs.
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