Why is a water molecule non-linear?

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory (VSEPR) states that lone pairs repel other lone pairs more so than they do bonded pairs. In water, the oxygen atom has two lone pairs. These two lone pairs repel the hydrogen-oxygen bonded pairs so much that the molecule is at its lowest energy arrangement when the H-O-H bond angle is 104.5 degrees. As a result, the water molecule can be classified as non-linear.

HM
Answered by Harry M. Chemistry tutor

20056 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Balance the following redox equation: PbO2 + SO32- ==> Pb2+ + SO42-


Alcohols can be converted into alkenes by removing water. The alcohol 3-methylpent-2-ol forms a mixture of organic products when dehydrated. Describe the conditions of this reaction. Name all the organic products.


Calculate the percentage, by mass, of carbon in cyclohexane. Give your answer to two significant figures.


Explain why benzene is colourless whereas azo dyes (such as methyl yellow) are coloured.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences