I can't seem to find the answer anywhere. Please help.
2. What is the shape of the water molecule?
A.) linear
B.) tetrahedral
C.) trigonal planer
D.) bent
To determine the shape of the water molecule, we need to consider its Lewis structure and the arrangement of its atoms. Here's how you can find the answer yourself:
1. Identify the chemical formula of water: H2O. This means water consists of two hydrogen atoms (H) covalently bonded to one oxygen atom (O).
2. Draw the Lewis structure of water: Start with the oxygen atom (O) in the center and connect the two hydrogen atoms (H) to it using single bonds. Each bond is represented by a line (-). The Lewis structure of water should look like this: H-O-H.
3. Determine the number of regions of electron density around the central atom: In this case, the central atom is oxygen (O). There are two single bonds (two regions) and one lone pair of electrons (one region) around the oxygen atom. So, there are a total of three regions of electron density.
4. Use VSEPR theory to predict the molecular shape: VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory) states that electron pairs in the valence shell of the central atom repel each other and try to get as far apart as possible, resulting in a particular molecular shape.
In our case, with three regions of electron density, the VSEPR theory predicts the following possibilities:
- If all the regions are bonding regions (single bonds), the molecular shape would be trigonal planar. However, water has a lone pair of electrons, so this option is not applicable.
- If two regions are bonding regions (single bonds) and one region is a non-bonding region (lone pair), the molecular shape would be bent or angular.
Based on this information, the correct answer is D.) bent.
By following these steps, you should be able to determine the shape of the water molecule and understand how to arrive at the answer.