Molecular Geometry VSEPR and beyond!
Molecular Geometry Three dimensional arrangment of atoms Molecular polarity determined by geometry and polarity of bonds Molecular polarity: distribution of molecular charge Influences forces between molecules Two ideas explain and describe geometry: VSEPR theory Hybridization
VSEPR Valence shell electron pair repulsion Repulsion between valence pairs causes them to be separated as far as possible Separation of electron pairs (and bonds) creates the geometry of the molecule
VSEPR: Steps Find the Lewis structure Analyze the structure: A is central atom B represents atoms bonded to A E represents lone pairs on A Use Table 6-5 on page 186 to determine geometry
VSEPR Example Sample Problem 6-5 AlCl3 Molecule is AB3, so is trigonal-planar CBr4 Molecule is AB4, so is tetrahedral
VSEPR Example: Lone Pairs Only lone pairs on central atom matter! Sample Problem 6-6 Use VSEPR to predict the shape of a molecule of CO2 AB2, so is linear ClO3- AB3E, so is trigonal pyramidal