Problem 6
Question
Describe (with a word or short phrase) the shape of each of these molecules: \(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\); \(\mathrm{NH}_{3} ; \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O} .\)
Step-by-Step Solution
Verified Answer
The shape of CH4 is tetrahedral. The shape of NH3 is trigonal pyramidal. And, the shape of H2O is bent or angular.
1Step 1: Determine the Shape of CH4
The central atom in CH4 (methane) is C which is surrounded by four Hydrogen atoms. The electron pairs are all bonding (none are lone pairs), so according to VSEPR theory, the shape of CH4 is tetrahedral.
2Step 2: Determine the Shape of NH3
In NH3 (ammonia), the central atom is nitrogen, which is surrounded by three Hydrogen atoms with one lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen. According to VSEPR theory, the shape of NH3 is trigonal pyramidal.
3Step 3: Determine the Shape of H2O
In H2O (water), the central atom is Oxygen which is surrounded by two hydrogen atoms and two lone pairs of electrons are on the oxygen. Again using VSEPR theory, the shape of H20 is bent or angular.