4.2 THREE DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURE
The shape of a molecule is VERY important and dictates how it behaves/ reacts. (ex. Enzymatic reactions in biology) VSEPR Theory Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory -helps us to predict the 3D shape of a molecule
VSEPR THEORY A method used to determine molecular geometry based on the idea that electron pairs are as far apart as possible Bonding and lone pair electron position themselves as far apart as possible in a molecule to minimize electron-pair repulsion.
SOME EXAMPLES… Beryllium chloride (BeCl2) Boron trifluoride (BF3)
MORE EXAMPLES… 3) Methane (CH4) 4) over-filled octets: PCl5 and SF6
HOW TO ILLUSTRATE A 3D STRUCTURE:
LONE PAIRS Lone pairs tend to repel more than bonding pairs do, so they decrease bond angles. Ex. Ammonia Ex. Water