Can you explain the bond angle and shape of the molecule NH3?

In NH3, the nitrogen atom is bonded to three hydrogen atoms. By drawing the Lewis structure, the central nitrogen atom shows 3 covalent bonds to hydrogen and one lone pair. Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory suggests that the optimum bond angles would be 109.5 degrees. But as an electron pair takes up slightly more space, the bond angle is 107 degrees. This leads to a pyrimidal shape.

JJ
Answered by Jenny J. Chemistry tutor

15841 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Heating 3.210g of hydrated magnesium sulfate, MgSO4.XH2O, forms 1.567g of anhydrous magnesium sulfate. Find the value of X and write the formula of the hydrated salt


Palladium acts as a heterogeneous catalyst in the reaction between an alkene with hydrogen by providing an alternative reaction route. Describe the stages of this reaction route. (3 marks)


What is mass spectrometry and how does it work?


How do London Forces/Van der Waal's forces arise?


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