Question

question 2 of 8
how does a lone pair distort the molecular shape?
a. the lone pair makes new bonds, changing the molecules shape.
b. the lone pair forces bonding atoms farther from the nucleus.
c. the lone pair pushes bonding atoms closer to the nucleus.
d. the lone pair forces bonding atoms away from itself.

Explanation:

Lone - pairs of electrons have a greater repulsive effect than bonding pairs. They push the bonding atoms away from themselves due to their higher electron - density, distorting the molecular shape.

Answer:

D. The lone pair forces bonding atoms away from itself.