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

6844 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

Explain whether the boiling point of 1-bromopentane will be higher, lower or the same as that of 2-bromo-2-methylbutane. (3)


0.120g of an ideal gas was introduced into a gas syringe. The volume occupied by the gas at a pressure of 1.02x10^5 Pa and temperature 20 degrees was 49.3 cm^3. Calculate the molar mass of the gas.


Hydrogen bromide forms a strong acid when dissolved in water whereas hydrogen fluoride forms a weak acid. Distinguish between the terms strong acid and weak acid. State equations to describe the dissociation of each acid in aqueous solution. [3]


Sodium hydroxide reacts with phosphoric(V) acid according to the equation: 3NaOH + H3PO4 -> Na3PO4 + 3H2O 25.00 cm3 of 0.10 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide reacts with 0.05 mol dm-3 H3PO4. The volume of H3PO4, in cm3, required for neutralisation is?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences