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

7822 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

Identify and explain the trend in atomic radius across a period


Why does potassium react more readily in water than sodium?


Why do transition d-metal complexes show color?


Describe the different types of isomers.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning