Use VSEPR theory to predict the molecular geometry around the nitrogen atom in nitrite ion,NO₂^-. A) trigonal-planar B) tetrahedral C) trigonal-pyramidal D) T-shaped E) bent

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nitrite ion has two oxygen atoms bonded to the nitrogen atom. The electron geometry around the nitrogen atom is tetrahedral, but due to the presence of two lone pairs of electrons, the molecular geometry is bent or angular. This is because the lone pairs repel the bonded electron pairs, causing a distortion in the molecular shape. Therefore, the best choice is E) bent.

Use VSEPR Theory to Predict the Molecular Geometry Around the Nitrogen