Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 10: Problem 1

How is the geometry of a molecule defined and why is the study of molecular geometry important?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The geometry of a molecule, defined by the arrangement of atoms around the central atom and influenced by electron-pair repulsion, plays a crucial role in determining a molecule's polarity, phase, color, magnetism, biological activity, and reactivity.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Molecular Geometry

Molecular geometry refers to the three-dimensional structure or arrangement of atoms in a molecule. It's determined by the bonding electrons (electron pairs) and nonbonding electrons (lone pairs) surrounding the central atom in a molecule.
02

How is Molecular Geometry Defined?

The geometry of a molecule is defined based on the arrangement of atoms around the central atom. The major factor determining the geometry is the repulsion between electron pairs according to VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory). The most stable arrangement keeps the electron pairs as far away as possible from each other.
03

Importance of Studying Molecular Geometry

Studying the molecular geometry is essential as it impacts various aspects such as the polarity of the molecule, phase of the material, color, magnetism, biological activity, and reactivity of the molecule. Molecules with different geometries may have extremely different properties, even if they share the same chemical formula.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Assume that the third-period element phosphorus forms a diatomic molecule, \(\mathrm{P}_{2}\), in an analogous way as nitrogen does to form \(\mathrm{N}_{2}\). (a) Write the electronic configuration for \(\mathrm{P}_{2}\). Use \(\left[\mathrm{Ne}_{2}\right]\) to represent the electron configuration for the first two periods. (b) Calculate its bond order. (c) What are its magnetic properties (diamagnetic or paramagnetic)?

Use molecular orbital theory to explain why the \(\mathrm{Be}_{2}\) molecule does not exist

Specify which hybrid orbitals are used by carbon atoms in these species: (a) \(\mathrm{CO},\) (b) \(\mathrm{CO}_{2},\) (c) \(\mathrm{CN}^{-}\).

Draw Lewis structures and give the other information requested for these: (a) \(\mathrm{SO}_{3}\). Polar or nonpolar molecule? (b) \(\mathrm{PF}_{3}\). Polar or nonpolar molecule? (c) \(\mathrm{F}_{3} \mathrm{SiH} .\) Show the direction of the resultant dipole moment. (d) \(\mathrm{SiH}_{3}^{-}\). Planar or pyramidal shape? (e) \(\mathrm{Br}_{2} \mathrm{CH}_{2} .\) Polar or nonpolar molecule?

Compare the relative stability of these species and indicate their magnetic properties (that is, diamagnetic or paramagnetic): \(\mathrm{O}_{2}, \mathrm{O}_{2}^{+}, \mathrm{O}_{2}^{-}\) (superoxide ion), \(\mathrm{O}_{2}^{2-}\) (peroxide ion).
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

Physical Chemistry

Read Explanation

Kinetics

Read Explanation

Chemical Reactions

Read Explanation

Inorganic Chemistry

Read Explanation

Organic Chemistry

Read Explanation

Chemical Analysis

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free