Textbook Question
Determine the electron geometry, molecular geometry, and idealized bond angles for each molecule. In which cases do you expect deviations from the idealized bond angle?
a. CI4
b. NCl3
c. OF2
d. H2S
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Bond Angles
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Determine the bond angle for the thiocyanate ion, SCN–.
A
180°
B
90°
C
120°
D
109.5°
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the thiocyanate ion (SCN–). In this case, the central atom is carbon (C).
Determine the number of regions of electron density around the central atom. For SCN–, carbon is bonded to sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N), and there are no lone pairs on the carbon atom.
Recognize that the thiocyanate ion is a linear molecule because there are two regions of electron density (the S-C and C-N bonds) around the central carbon atom.
Understand that in a linear molecular geometry, the bond angle is 180° because the regions of electron density are arranged as far apart as possible.
Conclude that the bond angle for the thiocyanate ion, SCN–, is 180°.
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