Chem 20 Unit 1 - VSEPR Theory

Stereochemistry is the study of the 3-D spatial configuration of molecules.

Valence-shell-electron-pair-repulsion (VSEPR) theory states that pairs of electrons in the valence shell of

an atom stay as far apart as possible because of the repulsion of their negative charges.

● The molecular shape is determined by the positions of the electron pairs when they are a maximum

distance apart and whether they are bond pairs or lone pairs.

● The order of repulsion is as follows: LP – LP > LP – BP > BP – BP.