Multiple Choice
Which type of model best represents the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in simple molecules?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following molecules has a non-linear (bent) molecular geometry?
A
H_2O
B
CCl_4
C
CO_2
D
BF_3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in each molecule and determine the number of electron groups (bonding and lone pairs) around it using the Lewis structure.
Recall that molecular geometry depends on the arrangement of electron groups around the central atom, which is predicted by the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory.
For H_2O, the oxygen atom has two bonding pairs and two lone pairs of electrons, resulting in four electron groups. According to VSEPR, this leads to a bent molecular geometry because lone pairs repel more strongly and distort the shape.
For CCl_4, the central carbon atom has four bonding pairs and no lone pairs, leading to a tetrahedral geometry, which is symmetrical and not bent.
For CO_2 and BF_3, the central atoms have linear and trigonal planar geometries respectively, both of which are not bent. CO_2 has two double bonds and no lone pairs (linear), and BF_3 has three bonding pairs and no lone pairs (trigonal planar).
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