[shalikadm]

We are taught,
number of repulsion units(VSEPR units) = σ + lone pairs 1
how many repulsion units in molecules like NO and NO₂?
I would like to modify the theory we taught..
number of repulsion units(VSEPR units)= σ + lone pairs +unpaired bonding electrons 2
because we can't predict the shape of NO₂ with just no:1
Am I correct ?
thanks !

[shalikadm]

b u m p

[Rutherford]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VSEPR_theory
Here you have the paragraph "Odd-electron molecules".

[shalikadm]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VSEPR_theory
Here you have the paragraph "Odd-electron molecules".

Yes ,I understand this.But if someone asks me how many repulsion units are there in NO₂ -what will be my answer - 2 or 3 ?

[Rutherford]

2.5.

[shalikadm]

2.5.

Are you 100% sure about this that I will get full marks if I give 2.5 as my answer in a paper..?
thanks a lot !

[Rutherford]

It is always good to explain what you mean by 2.5 and that is explained on the wikkipedia link I have you.

[shalikadm]

It is always good to explain what you mean by 2.5 and that is explained on the wikkipedia link I have you.

One more question regarding this...
What is the hybridization of N in NO₂?
Is it sp or sp2 ?
can you give me energy diagrams showing exited state and hybridized state of N in NO₂ like the following .Here's the ground state of N.

[Rutherford]

If VSEPR theory says that the structure is a transitional one (something between two other structures), then you shouldn't expect that the hybridisation type will be absolute. As there is no sp^1.5, the valence bond theory fails to predict the geometry of this molecule, so I don't think that you can find a diagram for sp^1.5.