Predict the shape of the H2O compound based upon concepts of hybridisa...
The water molecule has angular or bent structure due to the presence of two lone pairs which repels strongly.
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Predict the shape of the H2O compound based upon concepts of hybridisa...
Explanation:
Hybridization in H2O:
- In the water molecule (H2O), the central oxygen atom is sp3 hybridized.
- Oxygen has 6 electrons in its valence shell (2s2 2p4). To form 2 sigma bonds with the two hydrogen atoms, oxygen hybridizes one s and three p orbitals to form four sp3 hybrid orbitals.
Shape of H2O:
- The shape of the H2O molecule is angular or bent.
- The two lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom cause repulsion, leading to a bent molecular geometry.
- The bond angle in water is approximately 104.5 degrees.
Explanation of Options:
- Tetrahedral: This shape is seen in molecules with sp3 hybridization and no lone pairs, such as methane (CH4).
- Angular or Bent Structure: This is the correct shape for H2O due to the presence of lone pairs causing distortion.
- Trigonal Planar: This shape is seen in molecules with sp2 hybridization, like boron trifluoride (BF3).
- Pyramidal: This shape is observed in molecules with sp3 hybridization and one lone pair, such as ammonia (NH3).
Therefore, based on the concept of hybridization and lone pair repulsion in the H2O molecule, the correct shape is an angular or bent structure.