QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Using the VSEPR model, the molecular geometry of the central atom in ClO^3− is:
A. bent
B. linear
C. trigonal pyramidal
D. trigonal planar
E. tetrahedral
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Answer
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Step 1:Let's solve this step by step using the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) model:
Step 2:: Determine the central atom
- The central atom in ClO^3− is chlorine (Cl)
Step 3:: Count the total number of electron domains around the central atom
- Chlorine has 3 oxygen atoms bonded to it - There is a negative charge on the ion - Electron domain count: * 3 single bonds to oxygen atoms * 1 lone pair on the central chlorine atom - Total electron domains = 4
Step 4:: Determine electron domain geometry
\text{Electron domain geometry: Tetrahedral}
- 4 electron domains around the central atom - This corresponds to a tetrahedral electron domain geometry
Step 5:: Determine molecular geometry
\text{Molecular geometry: Trigonal pyramidal}
- 4 total domains - 3 domains are bonding (to oxygen atoms) - 1 domain is a lone pair - This results in a trigonal pyramidal molecular geometry
Step 6:: Verify the answer choices
- Comparing to the given options, trigonal pyramidal corresponds to option C
Final Answer
Key Reasoning: - VSEPR model considers both bonding and non-bonding electron domains - The lone pair on chlorine causes slight distortion from a perfect tetrahedral shape - The presence of the lone pair pushes the oxygen atoms slightly, creating a trigonal pyramidal geometry
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