Question

question 1 of 10
what would cause the shape of a molecule to be tetrahedral?

a. three atoms bound to a central atom with one lone pair
b. four atoms bound to a central atom with no lone pairs
c. two atoms bound to a central atom with two lone pairs
d. four atoms bound to a central atom with two lone pairs

Explanation:

To determine the molecular shape, we use VSEPR theory. A tetrahedral shape occurs when the central atom has four bonding pairs (no lone pairs) because the electron pairs (bonding) repel equally, arranging in a tetrahedron.

• Option A: Three atoms and one lone pair gives a trigonal pyramidal shape.
• Option B: Four atoms (four bonding pairs) and no lone pairs on the central atom results in a tetrahedral shape (e.g., \(CH_4\)).
• Option C: Two atoms and two lone pairs gives a bent (angular) shape.
• Option D: Four atoms and two lone pairs gives a square planar shape (for octahedral electron geometry with two lone pairs).

Answer:

B. Four atoms bound to a central atom with no lone pairs