Lab 5- Using Models To Predict Molecular Structure

Question 1

What is the purpose of this lab?

Answer 1

This lab exercise represents an opportunity for you to study the three-dimensional aspects of bonding in molecules. Although Lewis structures gives a 2D picture of bonding, the vast majority of molecules have a 3D structure.

Question 2

Define the Octet Rule

Answer 2

The tendency of atoms of main group elements to make bonds by gaining, losing, or sharing electrons to achieve a valence shell containing 8 electrons, or 4 electron pairs.

Question 3

Define Formal Charges

Answer 3

The value calculated for an atom in a molecule or poly atomic ion by determining the difference between the number of valence electrons in the free atom ad the sum of the lone-pair-electrons plus half the electrons in the atom’s bonding pairs.

Question 4

Define Isomers

Answer 4

One of a group of compounds having the same chemical formula but different molecular structures.

Question 5

Define VSEPR Theory

Answer 5

A model predicting the arrangement of valence shell electron pairs around a central atom that minimizes the mutual repulsion to produce the lowest energy orientations.

Question 6

Define Electronegativity

Answer 6

A relative measure of an atom’s ability to attract electrons to itself within a bond.

Question 7

Define Polarity

Answer 7

The relative case with which the electron cloud in a molecule, ion, or atom can be distorted, inducing a temporary dipole.

Question 8

Define Hybridization

Answer 8

In valence bond theory, the mixing of atomic orbitals to generate new sets of orbitals that may form sigma bonds with other atoms.

Question 9

In the experiment, structures with a _____ magnitude of formal charges are preferred.

Answer 9

Lower