Why is the molecule CH4 tetrahedral whereas NH3 is not?

By the VSEPR (Valence shell electron pairs repulsions) theory, even though there are four electron pairs on C and N, the presence of a lone pair of electrons on N increases the repulsions, meaning that the NH3 molecule is not tetrahedral but trigonal bipyramidal.

PL
Answered by Paula L. Chemistry tutor

7240 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

Why is the boiling point of PH3 lower than that of NH3?


Define three element properties and explain how they change across the periodic table.


What does the rate of chemical reactions depend on?


Explain why Sc3+(aq) is colourless, while Ni2+(aq) is green.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning