In Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, what is the key difference between electron geometry and molecular geometry around a central atom?

• A. Electron geometry is determined by the molecule’s overall polarity, while molecular geometry is determined by the central atom’s electronegativity.
• B. Electron geometry considers the arrangement of all electron groups (bonding and lone pairs) around the central atom, while molecular geometry considers only the arrangement of the bonded atoms (ignoring lone pairs).
• C. Electron geometry applies only to ionic compounds, while molecular geometry applies only to covalent compounds.
• D. Electron geometry describes the 3D arrangement of only the bonded atoms, while molecular geometry includes both bonded atoms and lone pairs.

Answer: (B)