Predict the molecular geometry of each of the following molecules: (b) H O C O C O O H

Key Concepts

VSEPR Theory

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) Theory is a model used to predict the geometry of individual molecules based on the repulsion between electron pairs in the valence shell of the central atom. According to VSEPR, electron pairs will arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion, leading to specific molecular shapes such as linear, trigonal planar, or tetrahedral.

Hybridization

Hybridization is the concept of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that can accommodate the bonding and lone pairs of electrons in a molecule. For example, in the case of carbon in the given molecule, sp2 hybridization occurs, resulting in a trigonal planar arrangement around the carbon atom, which influences the overall molecular geometry.

Molecular Geometry

Molecular geometry refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within a molecule. It is determined by the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs of electrons around the central atom, which affects the angles between bonds and the overall shape. Understanding molecular geometry is crucial for predicting the physical and chemical properties of substances.