Final answer:
Valence bond theory may not accurately predict the bonding in SeO₄²⁻ without considering molecular orbital theory or hybridization concepts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks if valence bond theory accurately predicts the bonding in SeO₄²⁻. Valence bond theory suggests that covalent bonds form from the overlap of atomic orbitals that each contain one electron. The overlap of orbitals along the axis containing the nuclei creates a sigma bond, and when they overlap in a way that creates a node along this axis, a pi bond forms. However, for complex molecules and polyatomic ions like SeO₄²⁻, which involve molecular orbitals and hybridization, valence bond theory alone may not adequately predict the bonding without considering these advanced concepts. A more comprehensive approach would involve molecular orbital theory or hybridization concepts for an accurate description of the bonding in SeO₄²⁻.