The VSEPR model predicts the H-O-H bond angle in H₃O⁺ to be: A)60° B)90° C)less than 109.5° but greater than 90° D)109.5°

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The central atom in this molecule is S, which has 6 valence electrons. There are 4 single bonds and 2 lone pairs on S. This gives rise to an octahedral electron geometry. The lone pairs occupy two opposite equatorial positions, while the four S-O bonds are directed towards the four corners of a square in the horizontal plane. Due to the repulsion between lone pairs, the two axial S-O bond pairs will be pushed closer together, resulting in a less than 90° bond angle. Therefore, the H-O-H bond angle in H₃O⁺ is less than 109.5° but greater than 90°, which is option C.

The VSEPR Model Predicts the H-O-H Bond Angle in H3O+

The VSEPR Model Predicts the H-O-H Bond Angle in H₃O⁺