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Topic: Question on Molecular Geometry  (Read 8184 times)

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Offline GreenTea1

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Question on Molecular Geometry
« on: February 20, 2012, 02:18:22 AM »
I'm learning molecular geometry rules, and am having a hard time with one question.

I'll write the question along with my answer for any feedback-

There are three possible arrangements of atoms and non-bonding pairs of electrons for the AB3N2 geometry.

Assuming that the effects of the relative strengths of different types of electron repulsions are considerably more important for bond angles of 90 degrees (or less) than for those of 120 degrees (or greater), explain why the T-shape configuration is considered to be most accurate.


My answer: Since it is Trigonal bipyramidal, two electron pairs would be vertical, and the others horizontal in three points. The two non-bonding electron pairs are positioned to reduce repulsion.


I feel like my answer is inadequate- any suggestions would be appreciated.



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