Shapes of Molecules and Polyatomic Ions

Question 1

What does VSEPR theory state?

Answer 1

The shape adopted by a simple molecule or ion is that which keeps repulsive forces to a minimum.

Question 2

What is the shape of a molecule with 2 bonding pairs only?

Answer 2

Linear.

Question 3

What is the shape of a molecule with 3 bonding pairs only?

Answer 3

Trigonal planar.

Question 4

What is the shape of a molecule with 4 bonding pairs only?

Answer 4

Tetrahedral.

Question 5

What is the shape of a molecule with 5 bonding pairs only?

Answer 5

Trigonal bipyramidal.

Question 6

What is the shape of a molecule with 6 bonding pairs only?

Answer 6

Octahedral.

Question 7

What is the shape of a molecule with 3 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair?

Answer 7

Trigonal pyramidal.

Question 8

What is the shape of a molecule with 2 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs?

Answer 8

Non-linear/bent.

Question 9

What is the shape of a molecule with 4 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs?

Answer 9

Square planar.

Question 10

Why are the shapes of molecules with lone pairs of electrons slightly distorted from the regular shapes?

Answer 10

Due to extra repulsion caused by the lone pairs.