Textbook Question
(b) The anion IO4- has a tetrahedral structure: three oxygen atoms form double bonds with the central iodine atom and one oxygen atom which carries a negative charge forms a single bond. Predict the molecular geometry of IO65-.
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of a molecule with four outer atoms and two lone pairs on the central atom?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Octahedral
C
Trigonal bipyramidal
D
Square planar
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom and count the total number of electron pairs (bonding and lone pairs) around it. In this case, there are four bonding pairs (from the four outer atoms) and two lone pairs.
Determine the electron pair geometry by considering both bonding pairs and lone pairs. With six electron pairs, the electron pair geometry is octahedral.
Consider the effect of the lone pairs on the molecular geometry. Lone pairs occupy more space than bonding pairs, which can alter the shape.
Remove the influence of the lone pairs to determine the molecular geometry. With two lone pairs, the remaining four bonding pairs form a square planar shape.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of a molecule with four outer atoms and two lone pairs on the central atom is square planar.
1:33mWatch next
Master Molecular Geometry with Two Electron Groups with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Molecular Geometry practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations