VSEPR Theory and Molecular Geometries Overview

VSEPR Theory

Predicts molecular shapes based on electron repulsion.

Electron Geometry

Arrangement of electron domains around central atom.

Molecular Geometry

Arrangement of atoms around a central atom.

Lewis Structure

Diagram showing valence electrons in a molecule.

Electron Domain

Regions of high electron density around central atom.

Regions of High Electron Density

Includes bonds and lone pairs surrounding central atom.

Trigonal Planar

Three electron domains arranged in a plane.

Tetrahedral

Four electron domains arranged in three dimensions.

Trigonal Bipyramidal

Five electron domains in two distinct planes.

Octahedral

Six electron domains arranged around a central atom.

Seesaw Molecular Geometry

Trigonal bipyramidal with one lone pair.

T-shape Molecular Geometry

Trigonal bipyramidal with two lone pairs.

Linear Molecular Geometry

Trigonal bipyramidal with three lone pairs.

Square Pyramidal

Octahedral with one lone pair.

Square Planar

Octahedral with two lone pairs.

Polarity of Bonds

Determined by differences in electronegativity.

Electronegativity

Atom's ability to attract shared electrons.

Bent Molecular Geometry

Trigonal planar with one lone pairs.

Trigonal Pyramidal

Tetrahedral with one lone pair.

Linear Electron Geometry

Electron domains arranged in a straight line.

Models of Molecular Geometry

Visual representations of molecular shapes.

Lone Pair

Non-bonding electron pairs on an atom.

Bonding Pair

Electrons shared between two atoms in a bond.

Bent Molecular Geometry

Tetrahedral with two lone pairs.