For each of the questions, four choices have been provided. Select the correct alternative. The shape of \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) molecule is (a) linear (b) tetrahedral (c) v-shaped (d) trigonal planar

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The shape of a water (H₂O) molecule is v-shaped (bent).

Step by step solution

01

Identify the central atom and its electron pairs

In a water molecule (H₂O), oxygen (O) is the central atom, surrounded by two hydrogen (H) atoms. To determine the arrangement of these atoms, we must consider the number of electron pairs around the central oxygen atom. Oxygen has 6 valence electrons, and it shares two electrons with the two hydrogen atoms, forming two single bonds. The remaining 4 valence electrons are in two lone pairs.
02

Apply the VSEPR theory

VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory is used to predict the shape of a molecule. It is based on the idea that electron pairs in the valence shell of an atom will adopt positions that minimize their repulsion. According to VSEPR theory, the geometry of a molecule can be determined by counting the number of electron pairs around the central atom and their repulsion effects.
03

Determine the molecular geometry

In the water molecule (H₂O), there are two bonded pairs (hydrogen atoms) and two lone pairs around the central oxygen atom. Based on the VSEPR theory, the two lone pairs will repel each other, causing the molecule to have an asymmetric shape. The bonded pairs of electrons (hydrogen atoms) are forced to adopt a position where they are less affected by the repulsion of the lone pairs. As a result, the geometry of the H₂O molecule is V-shaped (or bent). So, the correct answer is: (c) v-shaped

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.

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

See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

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