QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Use VSEPR theory to predict the electron-pair geometry and the molecular geometry of CH^3 Cl.
A. The electron-pair geometry is linear, the molecular geometry is linear.
B. The electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral, the molecular geometry is trigonal-pyramidal.
C. The electron-pair geometry is trigonal-planar, the molecular geometry is bent.
D. The electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral, the molecular geometry is tetrahedral.
E. The electron-pair geometry is trigonal-planar, the molecular geometry is trigonal planar.
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Answer
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Step 1:Let's solve this step by step using VSEPR theory:
Step 2:: Determine the central atom
- The central atom in CH₃Cl is carbon (C)
Step 3:: Count the number of electron domains around the central atom
- Carbon has 4 electron domains: * 3 single bonds to hydrogen (H) * 1 single bond to chlorine (Cl) - Total electron domains = 4
Step 4:: Determine electron-pair geometry
- With 4 electron domains around the central atom, the electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral - This follows the general rule: 4 electron domains → tetrahedral arrangement
Step 5:: Determine molecular geometry
- 4 total electron domains - All domains are bonding domains (no lone pairs) - This means the molecular geometry is also tetrahedral
Step 6:: Analyze the given options
- Option D matches our analysis: * Electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral * Molecular geometry is tetrahedral
Final Answer
The electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral, the molecular geometry is tetrahedral. Key Reasoning: - VSEPR theory predicts molecular geometry based on electron domain count - CH₃Cl has 4 electron domains around carbon - All domains are bonding domains - This results in a perfect tetrahedral arrangement both electronically and geometrically
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