What is the molecular geometry of a SbF5 molecule ?B. Predict the molecular geometry of N2O ?
You need to use the VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion). The first step is to draw a LEWIS DIAGRAM of the molecule. To do this: 1. Determine the number of VALENCE electrons (the ones in the outer shell) on each atom (you can determine this from its position on the periodic table, ie. the group that it is in). 2. Arrange the atoms in a manner which satisfies the OCTET RULE for each atom. This may mean sharing electrons between atoms or giving electrons from one atom to another. – note that it is easiest when you determine the CENTRAL ATOM in a structure. If there is only one of a type of atom in the formula, chances are that it is the central atom. Halogens are almost never central atoms. Metals usually are. Generally speaking, heavier atoms are more likely to be central to lighter ones. 3. Determine how many “things” are attached to the central atom. “Things” will include other atoms as well as LONE ELECTRON PAIRS. 4. VSEPR theory says that all of these “things” are go
