Question

Using the VSPER theory, what is the shape of CH2Cl2

Answer 1

CH2CL2 (Dichloro methane/Methylene dichloride)

Shape/Geometry: Tetrahedral

Hybridization: sp³

Total valence electrons: 20

It is a colorless liquid with chloroform like odor and soluble in organic solvents but not water.

It is a polar molecule.

(Below I've attached structural formula for CH2CL2)

Answer 2

Answer: Tetrahedral

Step-by-step explanation:

If you draw a Lewis structure of CH2Cl2, you will see that C is the central atom with four single bonds: two C-H bonds, and two C-Cl bonds. Since C only has four valence electrons, there are no lone pairs.

VSEPR theory specifies the shape of a molecule based on two factors:

1) the number of bonds to the central molecule, and

2) the number of lone pairs on the central molecule.

In our problem, CH2Cl2 has four bonds, and zero lone pairs. Consulting a table or reference (or memorizing!), we see that the shape is tetrahedral.