VSEPR Theory and Molecular Shapes
A simple model for predicting the 3D shape of a molecule.
VSEPR Theory
The Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory states that electron pairs around a central atom arrange themselves to be as far apart as possible, minimizing repulsion — this determines the molecule's geometry.
| Electron Pairs | Shape |
|---|---|
| 2 | Linear |
| 3 | Trigonal Planar |
| 4 | Tetrahedral |
Lesson 10 of 26