According to VSEPR theory, a molecule with four bond pairs and no lone pairs on the central atom is
Correct answer: C. tetrahedral
- A. linear
- B. trigonal planar
- C. tetrahedral
- D. bent
Explanation
Four regions of electron density spread as far apart as possible, which places them at the corners of a tetrahedron with angles of 109.5 degrees, as in methane. Adding a lone pair in place of a bond pair would give a pyramid, and two lone pairs a bent shape. The electron pair geometry and the molecular shape coincide only when there are no lone pairs.
Report an error
The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.
Prefer email? support@testustad.com
About VSEPR Theory
Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory predicts molecular shape by arranging bonding pairs and lone pairs around a central atom to minimize repulsion. Questions cover linear, trigonal planar, tetrahedral, trigonal bipyramidal and octahedral electron geometries, bond angles and distortions caused by lone pairs. Electron geometry is not always the same as molecular shape.
Practise Chemical Bonding
964 free Chemical Bonding MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Discussion
Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.
No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.
Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this
Chemistry is on 14 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.
More VSEPR Theory questions
The bond angle in a molecule of methane, ammonia and water decreases in the order 109.5, 107 and 104.5 degrees because
The shape of the methane molecule and the carbon dioxide molecule are respectively
The shape of the boron trifluoride molecule, BF3, is
The shape of the sulphur hexafluoride molecule, SF6, is
The number of lone pairs on the central atom in a water molecule is
Which species is linear?