Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of a molecule with four outer atoms and two lone pairs on the central atom?
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Determine the molecular geometry for the following molecule:CHClO.
A
Trigonal pyramidal
B
T-shaped
C
Trigonal planar
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule CHClO. In this case, carbon (C) is the central atom because it can form multiple bonds and is typically the central atom in organic molecules.
Determine the number of valence electrons for each atom in the molecule. Carbon has 4 valence electrons, hydrogen has 1, chlorine has 7, and oxygen has 6.
Calculate the total number of valence electrons available for bonding in the molecule. Add the valence electrons from each atom: 4 (C) + 1 (H) + 7 (Cl) + 6 (O) = 18 valence electrons.
Use the valence electrons to form bonds between the central atom and surrounding atoms. Carbon will form single bonds with hydrogen, chlorine, and oxygen, using 6 electrons. The remaining electrons will be used to complete the octets of the surrounding atoms.
Determine the molecular geometry by considering the arrangement of electron pairs around the central atom. Carbon is surrounded by three atoms and no lone pairs, which leads to a trigonal planar geometry according to VSEPR theory.
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