← Labs|VSEPR & Hybridization — 3D Molecular Geometry

Molecules

VSEPR Rules

• Count ALL e⁻ pairs around central atom (bonds + LPs)

• LP-LP repulsion > LP-BP repulsion > BP-BP repulsion

• SHAPE name uses only bond positions (LP invisible in shape)

• Electron geometry ≠ Molecular shape when LPs present

• LPs prefer equatorial in TBP (least 90° conflicts)

• LPs trans to each other in Oct. (minimum repulsion)

CH₄

Methane

Hybridization

sp³

Electron Pair Geometry

Tetrahedral

Molecular Shape

Tetrahedral

e⁻ Pairs

BP: 4 · LP: 0 · Total: 4

Bond angle: 109.5°

Key Insight

Perfect tetrahedral: 4 equal bond pairs → all 109.5°. Electron = Molecular geometry.

No lone pairs on this molecule

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🟡 = Lone pair (pulsing)

Hybridization:
4 e⁻ pairs → sp³
4 pairs → tetrahedral 109.5°