Which of the following species have the same molecular geometry: H₃O⁺,H₂CO,NH₃,and ICl₃?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To determine molecular geometry, we need to look at the electron pair geometry and the number of lone pairs and bonded pairs of electrons surrounding the central atom. H₃O⁺: The central atom is P and has a tetrahedral electron pair geometry with two bonded atoms (S and O) and one lone pair of electrons. The molecular geometry is trigonal pyramidal. H₂CO: The central atom is C and has a trigonal planar electron pair geometry with two bonded atoms (S and O) and one lone pair of electrons. The molecular geometry is bent. NH₃: The central atom is P and has a tetrahedral electron pair geometry with three bonded atoms (S) and no lone pairs of electrons. The molecular geometry is trigonal pyramidal. ICl₃: The central atom is I and has a octahedral electron pair geometry with four bonded atoms (S) and one lone pair of electrons. The molecular geometry is square pyramidal. Therefore, only H₃O⁺ and NH₃ have the same molecular geometry (trigonal pyramidal).

Which of the Following Species Have the Same Molecular Geometry