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

7159 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

In the addition of hydrogen bromide to propene, consider which of the two possible products, 1-bromopropane and 2-bromopropane, will be the major product and why.


Cu2+ (aq) reacts with ammonia to form the complex ion [Cu(NH)3)4]2+. Explain this reaction in terms of acid-base theory, and outline the bonding in the complex formed between Cu2+ and NH3


Why does ozone absorb a broader range of wavelengths of UV light than oxygen?


Why do melting points decrease down the group 1 and increade down the group 7? (core syllabus: Periodicity)


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