Multiple Choice
Determine the electron geometry for the carbon disulfide molecule, CS2.
4. Molecular Compounds
Electron Geometry (Simplified)
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Determine the electron geometry of the nitrogen atom within methylamine, CH3NH2.
A
Linear
B
Trigonal planar
C
Trigonal pyramidal
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule. In methylamine (CH3NH2), the nitrogen (N) atom is the central atom of interest for determining its electron geometry.
Count the number of electron groups around the nitrogen atom. Electron groups include bonds (single, double, or triple) and lone pairs of electrons. In the structure provided, nitrogen is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and has one lone pair of electrons.
Determine the total number of electron groups around the nitrogen atom. In this case, there are three bonds (two N-H bonds and one N-C bond) and one lone pair, making a total of four electron groups.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to determine the electron geometry. According to VSEPR theory, four electron groups around a central atom will arrange themselves in a tetrahedral geometry to minimize repulsion.
Conclude that the electron geometry of the nitrogen atom in methylamine is tetrahedral, as it has four electron groups (three bonds and one lone pair) arranged in a tetrahedral shape.
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