Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of the sulfate ion, SO_4^{2-}?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following is the correct molecular shape of CH_4?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Tetrahedral
C
Bent
D
Linear
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule CH_4, which is carbon (C).
Determine the number of valence electrons around the central atom. Carbon has 4 valence electrons, and each hydrogen contributes 1 electron, making a total of 8 electrons (4 bonds).
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the shape. Since there are 4 bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the central atom, the electron pairs will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion.
According to VSEPR theory, 4 bonding pairs around a central atom arrange in a tetrahedral geometry to be as far apart as possible.
Conclude that the molecular shape of CH_4 is tetrahedral, not trigonal planar, bent, or linear.
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