AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -According to VSEPR theory, the most probable shape of the molecule having 4 electrons pairs in the outer shell of the central atom is . Central atom having four electron pairs will be of tetrahedral shape.

Detailed explanation-2: -For example; four electron pairs are distributed in a tetrahedral shape. If these are all bond pairs the molecular geometry is tetrahedral (e.g. CH4). If there is one lone pair of electrons and three bond pairs the resulting molecular geometry is trigonal pyramidal (e.g. NH3).

Detailed explanation-3: -VSEPR Shapes The structures are: linear, trigonal planar, angled, tetrahedral, trigonal pyramidal, trigonal bipyramidal, disphenoidal (seesaw), t-shaped, octahedral, square pyramidal, square planar, and pentagonal bipyramidal.

Detailed explanation-4: -When an atom has 4 electons in its outermost shell, it can share these electron with another atom to complete its octet and can form 4 bonds. On sharing of these electrons, its steric number will be 4 and it will be sp3 hybridised. Hence, its shape is tetrahedral eg. CH4.

Detailed explanation-5: -With four bonding pairs, the molecular geometry of methane is tetrahedral (Figure 10.2. 3).