Chapter 10, Problem 10.68P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Deviation in the bond angle of ${\text{NO}}_2$ and ${\text{NO}}_2^{-}$ from their ideal bond angle is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The following steps are used to determine the molecular shape of the given molecule.

Step 1: Write the Lewis structure of the given formula and place the atoms.

Step 2: Count all electron groups including bonding and non-bonding pairs around the central atom and use it to assign one of the five electron-group arrangement.

Step 3: Write the ideal bond angle related to the electron-group arrangement and the effect of any deviation can be predicted by using VSEPR.

Step 4: Count the bonding and non-bonding electron groups and draw the molecular shape accordingly.