Chapter 12, Problem 17ST

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The molecular shape of a water molecule, ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$, is to be compared with that of a hydronium ion, ${\text{H}}_{\text{3}}{\text{O}}^{+}$ using VSEPR theory.

Concept introduction:

The VSEPR theory talks about the shape of the molecule obtained due to the repulsion between the electron pairs surrounding the central atom. Electron pair geometry is the shape obtained after the arrangement bonding and nonbonding electron pairs. Molecular geometry is the shape obtained by the arrangement of bonding electrons only.