After reading these notes, test your knowledge with free interactive questions on Seneca — used by over 10 million students.

VSEPR Theory

VSEPR theory describes the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion. The use of VSEPR theory allows for the prediction of molecular geometries.

VSEPR

VSEPR

  • The first step in predicting the VSEPR geometry and bond angles is to accurately draw the Lewis structure of the molecule.
  • Then, determine the number of bonded domains and non-bonded domains.
    • Bonded domains are sometimes called charge clouds.
Bonded domains

Bonded domains

  • The number of bonded domains is the number of bonds on the central atom.
  • Each of the following counts as one domain:
    • One single bond (consisting of 2 electrons)
    • One double bond (consisting of 4 electrons)
    • One triple bond (consisting of 6 electrons)
Non-bonded domains

Non-bonded domains

  • Non-bonded domains are the number of lone pairs on the central atom.
    • One lone pair (consisting of 2 electrons)
    • One single unpaired electron (consisting of 1 lone electron)
Bond angles

Bond angles

  • Using the sum of bonded and non-bonded domains, the geometry and bond angles can be memorized from the chart shown.
Diagram
Jump to other topics
1

Structure - Models of the Particulate of Matter

2

Structure - Models of Bonding & Structure

3

Structure - Classification of Matter

3.1

The Periodic Table: Classification of Elements

3.2

Periodic Trends

3.3

Group 1 Alkali Metals

3.4

Halogens

3.5

Noble gases, group 18

3.6

Functional Groups: Classification of Organic

3.7

Functional Group Chemistry

3.8

Alkanes

3.9

Alcohols

3.10

Halogenoalkanes

4

Reactivity - What Drives Chemical Reaction?

5

Reactivity - How Much, How Fast & How Far?

6

Reactivity - The Mechanisms of Chemical Change

7

Measurement, Data Processing & Analysis

Practice questions on VSEPR

Can you answer these? Test yourself with free interactive practice on Seneca — used by over 10 million students.

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
Answer all questions on VSEPR

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium