Multiple Choice
If a molecule has a tetrahedral shape, how many lone pairs are most likely present on the central atom?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds has the same molecular geometry as methane (CH_4)?
A
H_2O
B
SiH_4
C
BF_3
D
NH_3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the molecular geometry of methane (CH_4). Methane has a central carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms with no lone pairs, resulting in a tetrahedral geometry.
Recall that molecular geometry depends on the number of bonded atoms and lone pairs around the central atom, as described by the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory.
Analyze each given compound's central atom and its bonding: H_2O has two bonded atoms and two lone pairs (bent shape), BF_3 has three bonded atoms and no lone pairs (trigonal planar), NH_3 has three bonded atoms and one lone pair (trigonal pyramidal), and SiH_4 has four bonded atoms and no lone pairs.
Compare the geometries: Since SiH_4 has four bonded atoms and no lone pairs like CH_4, it also has a tetrahedral molecular geometry.
Conclude that SiH_4 has the same molecular geometry as methane (CH_4) because both have a tetrahedral shape with four bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the central atom.
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