Chapter 10, Problem 10.1QP

How is the geometry of a molecule defined and why is the study of molecular geometry important?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Molecular geometry and its importance should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Molecular geometry is the spatial arrangement of the bonded atoms around the central atom. Molecular geometry influences many properties of a molecule.

Explanation of Solution

Molecular geometry is the spatial arrangement of atoms on a molecule and/ or ions.

It is the three dimensional arrangement of the bonded atoms with its central atom.

Several chemical and physical properties like polarity, color, reactivity etc. of a molecule depends on its geometry. Even the biological activity of a drug depends on the molecular geometry.

The geometry of a molecule can be found out by different methods like IR, Raman spectroscopy etc.

Here the position of each atom is determined by the nature of chemical bonding with its neighboring atoms.

We can predict the geometry by using Lewis structure and VSEPR (Valence-Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) model.

Molecular formula alone is not enough for the prediction of molecular geometry. Type of bonding, lone pair etc. depends on its prediction.

For example, the geometry of a molecule with formula ${\text{AB}}_{\text{2}}$ can have either linear or bent.

Conclusion

Molecular geometry and its importance was explained