Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of a molecule with 2 outer atoms and 1 lone pair on the central atom?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of BeF_2?
A
Linear
B
Bent
C
Trigonal planar
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom and the surrounding atoms in the molecule. In BeF_2, beryllium (Be) is the central atom, and there are two fluorine (F) atoms bonded to it.
Determine the number of valence electrons for the central atom. Beryllium has 2 valence electrons.
Count the total number of electron pairs around the central atom, including bonding and lone pairs. Since Be forms two single bonds with two fluorine atoms and has no lone pairs, there are 2 bonding pairs and 0 lone pairs.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the molecular geometry. With 2 bonding pairs and 0 lone pairs, the electron pairs will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion, which results in a linear shape.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of BeF_2 is linear, with a bond angle of approximately 180 degrees.
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