QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
What is the molecular geometry of the central atom in [tex]NO^3− [/tex] according to the VSEPR model?
A. Linear
B. Trigonal planar
C. Tetrahedral
D. Trigonal pyramidal
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Answer
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Step 1:Let's solve this step by step using VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory:
Step 2:: Determine the number of valence electrons
- Nitrogen (N): 5 valence electrons - Oxygen (O): 6 valence electrons × 3 oxygen atoms = 18 electrons - Negative charge adds 1 electron - Total valence electrons: 5 + 18 + 1 = 24 electrons
Step 3:: Draw the Lewis structure
- Nitrogen is the central atom - Distribute electrons to create three equivalent resonance structures with double bonds - Each oxygen has a single or double bond to nitrogen - Total electron domains around central nitrogen: 3 bonding domains
Step 4:: Apply VSEPR rules
- Number of electron domains: 3 - Number of bonding domains: 3 - Number of lone pairs: 0 - Electron domain geometry: Trigonal planar - Molecular geometry: Trigonal planar
Step 5:: Confirm electron arrangement
- Electron domains are spread out at 120° angles - No lone pairs on central atom - Matches trigonal planar geometry
Final Answer
Trigonal planar
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