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QuestionChemistry

H₂S has what kind of molecular shape? A. Linear B. Bent C. Trigonal planar D. Tetrahedral
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this step by step using VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory:

Step 2:
: Determine the central atom

- Sulfur (S) is the central atom in H₂S - Hydrogen atoms are terminal atoms

Step 3:
: Count electron domains around sulfur

- Sulfur has 2 bonding electron pairs (S-H bonds) - Sulfur also has 2 lone electron pairs - Total electron domains = 4

Step 4:
: Analyze electron domain geometry

- This is determined by the $$\frac{4}{4}$$ rule in VSEPR theory
- 4 total electron domains suggests a tetrahedral electron domain geometry

Step 5:
: Determine molecular shape

- With 2 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs - The actual molecular shape is bent (not tetrahedral) - Lone pairs repel bonding pairs, causing a bent geometry - Bond angle is approximately 104.5°

Step 6:
: Eliminate incorrect answers

- Linear: Incorrect - Trigonal planar: Incorrect - Tetrahedral electron geometry: Correct, but not molecular shape - Bent: Correct molecular shape

Final Answer

Bent