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How does a lone pair contribute to molecular shape?

A. It is too small to affect the molecule's shape.
B. It takes up space like an "invisible" atom.
C. It forces the molecule into a tetrahedral shape.
D. It lets the bonding pairs spread out more.

User CrazyCasta
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2 Answers

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B. It takes up space like an "invisible" atom. 99% sure.
User Moffeltje
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Answer: B. It takes up the space like an "invisible" atom.

Explanation: Lone pair of electrons are the pair of non bonding electrons which does not take part in the bonding unless and until there is a need of it.

Lone pair of electrons do occupy some space and thus are not too small to affects the molecule's shape.

These never forces the molecules into a tetrahedral shape.

As shown in the water molecule, they are repelling the bonding pairs of electrons so as that the tetrahedral shape gets distorted and force the molecule to take the angular shape.

How does a lone pair contribute to molecular shape? A. It is too small to affect the-example-1
User Dikshit Kathuria
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