Skip to main content
Ch.10 - Chemical Bonding II: Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Chapter 10, Problem 96

Draw the structures of two compounds that have the composition CH3NO2 and have all three H atoms bonded to the C. Predict which compound has the larger ONO bond angle.

Verified step by step guidance
1
insert step 1: Identify the possible structures for the compound CH3NO2 where all three hydrogen atoms are bonded to the carbon atom.
insert step 2: Consider the possible arrangements of the NO2 group. The NO2 group can be arranged as a nitro group (-NO2) or as a nitrite group (-ONO).
insert step 3: Draw the structure for the nitromethane (CH3NO2) where the NO2 group is attached to the carbon atom with a nitrogen-oxygen double bond and a nitrogen-oxygen single bond.
insert step 4: Draw the structure for the aci-nitromethane (CH3ONO) where the ONO group is attached to the carbon atom with an oxygen-nitrogen single bond and an oxygen-nitrogen double bond.
insert step 5: Predict the bond angles: The nitro group in nitromethane is expected to have a larger ONO bond angle due to resonance and the planar nature of the nitro group, compared to the bent structure of the nitrite group in aci-nitromethane.

Verified Solution

Video duration:
2m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Molecular Structure

Molecular structure refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within a molecule. For the compound CH3NO2, understanding how the atoms are connected and the spatial orientation of the bonds is crucial. The arrangement affects properties such as bond angles and reactivity, which are essential for predicting the behavior of the molecule.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:08
Molecular Formula

Bond Angles

Bond angles are the angles formed between two bonds that share a common atom. In the context of CH3NO2, the ONO bond angle is influenced by the hybridization of the nitrogen atom and the presence of lone pairs. The geometry around nitrogen will determine whether the bond angle is larger or smaller, impacting the overall shape of the molecule.
Recommended video:

Resonance Structures

Resonance structures are different ways of drawing a molecule that represent the same arrangement of atoms but differ in the distribution of electrons. For CH3NO2, resonance can affect the stability and bond angles of the molecule. Understanding resonance helps predict which structure is more favorable and how it influences the ONO bond angle.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:42
Resonance Structures