Skip to main content
Ch.11 - Chemical Bonding II: Molecular Shapes, VSEPR & MO Theory
Chapter 11, Problem 46c

Determine the geometry about each interior atom in each molecule and sketch the molecule. (Skeletal structure is indicated in parentheses.) c. NH2CO2H (H2NCOOH both O atoms attached to C)

Verified Solution

Video duration:
5m
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 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 influences the shape of the molecule. Common geometries include linear, trigonal planar, tetrahedral, and bent, each resulting from specific arrangements of electron pairs according to VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:33
Molecular Geometry with Two Electron Groups

VSEPR Theory

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 this theory, electron pairs will arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion, leading to specific molecular shapes. This theory is essential for determining the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule like NH2CO2H.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:13
Molecular Shapes and VSEPR

Skeletal Structure

A skeletal structure is a simplified representation of a molecule that shows the connectivity between atoms without depicting all the hydrogen atoms explicitly. In skeletal formulas, carbon atoms are typically represented by vertices or ends of lines, while other atoms like oxygen and nitrogen are shown explicitly. Understanding skeletal structures is crucial for visualizing molecular geometry and determining the arrangement of atoms in compounds such as NH2CO2H.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:26
Skeletal Formula