Question

Draw three different Lewis structures that could be possible for ZX2, assuming that Z is the central atom and that X is not hydrogen. Both Z and X obey the octet rule. Give molecular shapes and bond angles for each structure drawn. In each case, use valence shell electron pair repulsion theory to explain why the molecular shape is possible.

Answer 1

See images attached and explanation

Step-by-step explanation:

I have drawn three possible structures of ZX2. We have to remember that the shapes of molecules could be predicted on the basis of the Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory.

The number of electrons on the valence shell of the central atom determines the shape of the molecule. We have also been told that X is not hydrogen.

If the two X atoms are arranged at a bond angle of 180 degrees, we could have either structure I or II. We will have these structures if the Z atom is sp2 hybridized.

Similarly, if the Z atom is sp3 hybridized, we may have structure III in which the molecule is bent with a bond angle less than 109 degrees. This may result from the presence of a lone pair on Z.

Note that all these structures obey the octet rule.