Question

Use VSEPR theory to predict the electron-pair geometry and the molecular geometry of CH3Cl. 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. Group of answer choices

Answer 1

Answer:

d. The electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral, the molecular geometry is tetrahedral.

Explanation:

According to Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory, the shape of a molecule depends on the number of electrons pairs surrounding the valence shell of the central atom in the molecule.

In CH3Cl, the central atom is carbon. Carbon has four regions of electron density surrounding it and no lone pairs. Lone pairs cause molecules to deviate from the expected geometry.

Since CH3Cl has no lone pairs on the carbon central atom, both the molecular and electron pair geometries are tetrahedral.