Chemical Bonding and Molecular Geometry

The 3D structure of a molecule can be used to predict the bulk properties of a compound and how the compound will both interact and react with other compounds. In this section, we will talk about how structure is determined. The first step is to draw the 2D Lewis dot structure. From the Lewis dot structure, VSEPR (valence shell electron pair repulsion) theory can be used to determine both the electronic and molecular geometry.

Problem Solving: Lewis Dot Structures (~2 min)

VSEPR Infographic from Compound Chemistry

Valence Shell Electron Pair Electron Pair Repulsion Theory (VSEPR Theory) helps our understanding of what molecules look like in three-dimension. This will affect its motion which you can analyze in lab. The following infographic outlines the general process of determining the geometry of the molecule. This step in your general chemistry class is one of the building blocks for your future knowledge in organic chemistry.

Guide to Determining Shapes with VSEPR

When learning about the Shapes of Molecules with VSEPR, you will most likely be given a chart with a ~bunch~ of information on it. This could be overwhelming, so below is a guide as to how to read the chart.