Multiple Choice
In VSEPR theory, what is the electron geometry around the central carbon atom in (CO₂)?
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10. Chemical Bonding
Electron Geometry (Simplified)
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the electron geometry (electron-domain geometry) around the sulfur atom in (i.e., with one lone pair on sulfur)?
A
Trigonal bipyramidal
B
Square planar
C
Tetrahedral
D
Octahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom and count the total number of electron domains (regions of electron density) around it. In \( \text{SCl}_4 \), sulfur (S) is the central atom.
Determine the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs on the central atom. Sulfur forms 4 bonds with chlorine atoms and has 1 lone pair, giving a total of 5 electron domains.
Recall that the electron geometry depends on the total number of electron domains (bonding + lone pairs) around the central atom, not just the bonded atoms.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to find the electron geometry for 5 electron domains. According to VSEPR, 5 electron domains correspond to a trigonal bipyramidal electron geometry.
Note that the presence of the lone pair affects the molecular shape but does not change the electron geometry, which remains trigonal bipyramidal.
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