Molecular Shapes & Geometries

Question 1

VSEPR Theory

Answer 1

Describes the orientation of electron groups around the central atom.

Question 2

1 electron group =

Answer 2

1 bond (single, double, triple) or 1 lone pair

Question 3

Why are electron groups placed as far apart as possible?

Answer 3

To minimize the repulsion between them.

Question 4

What determines the specific shape of a molecule?

Answer 4

The number of atoms attached to the central atom.

Question 5

Characteristics of Linear

Answer 5

• 2 electron groups
• 2 bonded atoms
• 0 lone pairs
• 180 degree bond angle

Question 6

Characteristics of Trigonal Planar / Trigonal Planar

Answer 6

• 3 electron groups
• 3 bonded atoms
• 0 lone pairs
• 120 degree bond angle

Question 7

Characteristics of Trigonal Planar / Bent

Answer 7

• 3 electron groups
• 2 bonded atoms
• 1 lone pair
• 120 degree bond angle

Question 8

Characteristics of Tetrahedral

Answer 8

• 4 electron groups
• 4 bonded atoms
• 0 lone pairs
• 109 degree bond angle

Question 9

Characteristics of Tetrahedral / Trigonal Pyramidal

Answer 9

• 4 electron groups
• 3 bonded atoms
• 1 lone pair
• 109 degree bond angle

Question 10

Characteristics of Tetrahedral / Bent

Answer 10

• 4 electron groups
• 2 bonded atoms
• 2 lone pairs
• 109 degree bond angle

Question 11

All compounds with Trigonal Planar geometry have…

Answer 11

• 3 electron groups
• 120 degree bond angle

Question 12

All compounds with Tetrahedral geometry have…

Answer 12

• 4 electron groups
• 109 degree bond angle