World 1 · Atoms & Bonds · 7 minElectron domains set the shape
VSEPR: domains spread out
Teaching this? Open projector mode
VSEPR theory (valence-shell electron-pair repulsion) predicts the shape of a molecule from the electron groups around its central atom. Each group is an electron domain. A single, double or triple bond to one atom counts as one domain, and so does each lone pair.
Domains repel each other and spread out as far apart as they can. Two domains point opposite ways (180°). Three make a flat triangle (120°). Four make a tetrahedron (109.5°).
Check yourself
In carbon dioxide, O=C=O, how many electron domains surround the carbon atom?
0 of 2 required activities complete. Finish each task and quiz.Next lesson →