Molecular Geometry

Question 1

What is the VSEPR Theory?

Answer 1

Method used to predict geometry of individual molecules, based on:

• Valence
• Shells
• Pairs
• Electrons
• Repulsion

Question 2

What determines a molecule’s 3-D shape?

Answer 2

• The VSPER theory
• # of electron groups around the central atom (bonds)
• # of lone pairs on the central atom

(Based on the fact that electrons repel each-other)

Question 3

What qualifies as a single electron group?

Answer 3

• A lone pair of electrons (on central atom)
• Single bond
• Double bond
• Triple bond

Question 4

Which shapes will always be polar?

Answer 4

• Bent
• Trigonal Pyramidal

Question 5

Which shapes will always be nonpolar?

(as long as terminal atoms are the same)

Answer 5

• Tetrahedral
• Trigonal Planar