Molecular Geometry and VSEPR Theory

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to molecular geometry and the VSEPR theory, as outlined in the lecture notes.

Molecular Geometry

The three-dimensional arrangement of the atoms in a molecule.

VSEPR Theory

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory, which states that electron groups around a central atom arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion.

Lewis Structure

A diagram that represents the valence electrons in a molecule, showing how they are arranged among the atoms.

Bonding Pairs

Pairs of electrons that are shared between atoms in a molecule.

Non-bonding Pairs

Pairs of valence electrons that are not involved in bonding and are also known as lone pairs.

Central Atom

The atom in a molecule that other atoms are bonded to, usually with the highest valence.

Trigonal Planar Arrangement

A molecular shape with three bonded atoms around a central atom, arranged in a flat plane at 120° angles.

Tetrahedral Arrangement

A molecular shape with four bonded atoms around a central atom, arranged at angles of approximately 109.5°.

Linear Arrangement

A molecular shape where atoms are arranged in a straight line at 180° angles.

Trigonal Bipyramidal Arrangement

A molecular shape with five atoms around a central atom, with angles of 90° and 120°.

Octahedral Arrangement

A molecular shape with six bonded atoms around a central atom, with angles of 90°.

Lone Pair Effect

The influence of lone pairs on molecular geometry, as they occupy more space than bonding pairs.

Derivative Shapes

Molecular geometries that result from deviations from basic geometries due to lone pairs or different kinds of surrounding atoms.

T-shaped Geometry

A molecular shape that arises from a trigonal bipyramidal arrangement with two lone pairs.

Seesaw Geometry

A molecular shape that arises from a trigonal bipyramidal arrangement with one lone pair.

Polarity of Molecules

Determined by the charge distribution and the molecular geometry, affecting the net dipole.

Dipole Moment

A measure of the separation of positive and negative charges in a molecule.

Ideal Geometry

The theoretical arrangement of electrons that minimizes repulsion based on basic geometric shapes.