Questions and Answers
What determines the shape of a polyatomic molecule according to VSEPR theory?
The central atom and the number of electron pairs
What affects the shape of a molecule in VSEPR theory?
Both lone pairs and bond pairs
What are the limitations of VSEPR theory?
All of the above
Study Notes
- VSEPR theory explains the shape of polyatomic molecules based on valence shell electron pairs.
- The central atom and the number of electron pairs determine the shape of the molecule.
- Electron pairs repel each other and tend to orient themselves to minimize repulsion and maximize distance.
- Lone pairs and bond pairs can affect the shape of the molecule.
- VSEPR theory can be applied to resonance structures.
- The theory has limitations in explaining isoelectronic species, compounds of transition metals, and the structure of halides of group 2 elements.
- The least electronegative atom is selected as the central atom.
- The total number of electrons in the outermost shell of the central atom and in bonds with other atoms is used to determine the VSEP number.
- The strength of repulsion is strongest in two lone pairs and weakest in two bond pairs.
- The distance between electron pairs affects the energy of the molecule.
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