Chapter 24, Problem 81QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The moleculargeometry for each given species, using VSEPR, is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The VSEPR theory is used to predict the geometry of the molecules using the number of electron pairs surrounding the central atom.

There is a repulsive force acting between the electron pairs of the molecule, which leads to instability. Hence, the electron pairs around the central atom in a covalent molecule arrange themselves in a way to minimize this repulsion and become stable.

If the molecule has two bonding electron pairs and three nonbonding electron pairs. This forms geometry of type ${\text{AB}}_{\text{2}}{\text{E}}_3$, which indicates linear geometry.

If the molecule has four bonding electron pairs and zero nonbonding electron pairs. This forms the geometry of type ${\text{AB}}_4$, which indicates tetrahedral geometry.

If the molecule has five bonding electron pairs and zero nonbonding electron pairs. This forms the geometry of type ${\text{AB}}_5$, which indicates trigonal bipyramidal geometry.

If the molecule has four bonding electron pairs and one nonbonding electron pair, This forms the geometry of type ${\text{AB}}_{\text{4}}\text{E}$, which indicates see-saw geometry.