Multiple Choice
Given a molecule with a central atom bonded to three other atoms and a bond angle of approximately 120°, what is the molecular geometry around the central atom?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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What is the molecular geometry of SCl_2?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Bent
C
Linear
D
Trigonal planar
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule, which is sulfur (S) in SCl_2.
Determine the number of valence electrons for sulfur and chlorine atoms. Sulfur has 6 valence electrons, and each chlorine has 7 valence electrons.
Calculate the total number of valence electrons in the molecule: sulfur's 6 plus 2 chlorines' 7 each, totaling 20 valence electrons.
Draw the Lewis structure by placing sulfur in the center, bonding it to two chlorine atoms with single bonds, and then distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule. This results in sulfur having two bonding pairs and two lone pairs of electrons.
Use the VSEPR theory to predict the molecular geometry. With two bonding pairs and two lone pairs, the electron pair geometry is tetrahedral, but the molecular shape (considering only atoms) is bent.
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