VSEPR Theory and Molecular Geometry

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to VSEPR theory and molecular geometries based on steric numbers and lone pairs.

Steric Number/Electron Domains

The number of atoms bonded to a central atom plus the number of lone pairs of electrons on that central atom.

Molecular Geometry of 2 (Lone Pairs = 0)

Linear with bond angles of 180°.

Molecular Geometry of 3 (Lone Pairs = 0)

Trigonal Planar with bond angles of 120°.

Molecular Geometry of 4 (Lone Pairs = 0)

Tetrahedral with bond angles of 109.5°.

Molecular Geometry of 4 (Lone Pairs = 1)

Trigonal Pyramidal.

Molecular Geometry of 4 (Lone Pairs = 2)

Angular or Bent.

Molecular Geometry of 5 (Lone Pairs = 0)

Trigonal Bipyramidal with bond angles of 90° and 120°.

Molecular Geometry of 5 (Lone Pairs = 1)

Seesaw.

Molecular Geometry of 5 (Lone Pairs = 2)

T-shaped.

Molecular Geometry of 6 (Lone Pairs = 0)

Octahedral with bond angles of 90° and 180°.

Molecular Geometry of 6 (Lone Pairs = 1)

Square Pyramidal.

Molecular Geometry of 6 (Lone Pairs = 2)

Square Planar.