2.2.4 VSEPR Model
Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory.
Principle
Electron domains repel each other and orient themselves as far apart as possible.
Lone Pair - Lone Pair > Lone Pair - Bonding Pair > Bonding Pair - Bonding Pair
VSEPR Explorer
Bond Angle
109.5°
Yellow Lobes = Lone Pairs
Red Sphere = Central Atom
White Spheres = Bonded Atoms
Geometries (Up to 4 Domains)
| Domains | Lone Pairs | Electron Geometry | Molecular Geometry | Angle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 0 | Linear | Linear | 180° |
| 3 | 0 | Trigonal Planar | Trigonal Planar | 120° |
| 3 | 1 | Trigonal Planar | Bent (V-shaped) | <120° |
| 4 | 0 | Tetrahedral | Tetrahedral | 109.5° |
| 4 | 1 | Tetrahedral | Trigonal Pyramidal | <109.5° |
| 4 | 2 | Tetrahedral | Bent (V-shaped) | <<109.5° (~104.5°) |