Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry and approximate bond angle of the nitrate ion (NO_3^-)?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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What is the molecular geometry of dichloromethane (CH2Cl2)?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Linear
C
Trigonal planar
D
Bent
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in dichloromethane (CH2Cl2), which is carbon (C).
Determine the number of atoms bonded to the central atom and the number of lone pairs on it. Carbon forms four single bonds (two with hydrogen and two with chlorine) and has no lone pairs.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the molecular geometry. Since there are four bonding pairs and no lone pairs, the electron pairs will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion.
Recall that four bonding pairs around a central atom with no lone pairs adopt a tetrahedral geometry to maximize the distance between bonds.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of CH2Cl2 is tetrahedral.
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