QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
"The shape of the carbon tetrachloride molecule (CCl4) is:
A. tetrahedral
B. bent
C. pyramidal"
12 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1:I'll solve this molecular geometry problem step by step:
Step 2:: Analyze the Central Atom
- Carbon (C) is the central atom in carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) - Carbon has 4 valence electrons and forms 4 covalent bonds with chlorine atoms
Step 3:: Determine Electron Geometry
- Carbon forms 4 single bonds with chlorine atoms - Total electron domains around carbon = 4 - These electron domains are arranged to minimize electron repulsion
Step 4:: Apply VSEPR Theory
- With 4 electron domains and no lone pairs - The electron geometry will be tetrahedral - All electron domains are bonding domains (no lone pairs)
Step 5:: Predict Molecular Shape
- Since all domains are bonding and symmetrically arranged - The molecular shape matches the electron geometry - The molecule will have a tetrahedral shape
Step 6:: Visualize the Structure
- All Cl-C-Cl bond angles are approximately $$109.5^{\circ}
- Chlorine atoms are positioned at the vertices of a tetrahedron - Carbon is at the center of the tetrahedron
Final Answer
The key is that CCl₄ has 4 identical bonds arranged symmetrically around the central carbon atom, creating a perfect tetrahedral molecular geometry.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students