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Chapter 6: Problem 5

How is VSEPR theory useful?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory is helpful in predicting and understanding the three-dimensional structure of molecules based on the repulsion of electron pairs in the valence shell of the central atom. This can provide insight into different properties of molecules like polarity, reactivity and their physical and chemical magnitudes.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the concept of VSEPR theory

The Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory is a simple model in chemistry that is used to predict the shape or geometry of molecules. This theory is based on the idea that electron pairs in an atom's outermost (valence) shell will arrange themselves in order to minimize the repulsion between them. This produces a specific arrangement or geometry of the molecule that can help to explain the molecule's properties.
02

Relation between VSEPR theory and molecule geometry

The VSEPR theory helps us to predict the shape of the molecules based on the repulsion among the bonded and lone pair of electrons around the central atom. For instance, if an atom has two electron pairs (be it bonding pairs or lone pairs), they will arrange themselves on opposite sides of the central atom, creating a linear molecule. If there are three electron pairs, they will organize in a 'trigonal planar' fashion and so on.
03

Importance of VSEPR theory

The VSEPR theory is very useful in predicting the geometric structure of molecules, which helps to provide insights about the molecule's reactivity, polarity, color, phase of matter, magnitude of its physical and chemical properties, etc. It is a fundamental tool in the field of chemistry for understanding the behavior of molecules.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Why do electron pairs around a central atom stay as far apart as possible?

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How does a Lewis structure show a bond between two atoms that share four electrons?

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