Chapter U2.37, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A tetrahedral shape needs to be described.

Concept Introduction:

Pure tetrahedral shape involves sp³ hybridization (One s orbital & 3 p orbitals) with the angle of 109.5°.

Explanation of Solution

If the central atom in a molecule has sp³ hybridization then the shape of the molecule is tetrahedral.

In a tetrahedral molecule, central atom has 4 bond pairs and zero lone pair.

For example, methane molecule the structure of the molecule is represented as follows:

  

Here, C atom is bonded to 4 H atoms thus, the hybridization is sp³.

Other example is ammonium ion ${\text{NH}}_4^{+}$ . Here, N has 5 valence electrons. It can form maximum of 3 bonds. Thus, to form bond with 1 more H atom N atom can use its lone pair of electron.

  

Thus, in ${\text{NH}}_4^{+}$ there will be 4 bonding pair of electrons and zero lone pair with 1 positive charge. The shape of the molecule will be tetrahedral.