Valence-shell Electron-Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) Theory
A method to predict the shapes of molecules from their electronic structures (Lewis structures do not depict
shape)
Basic principle: each group of valence electrons around a central
atom is located as far away as possible from the others in order to
minimize repulsions
Both bonding and non-bonding valence electrons around
the central atom are considered.
AXmEn symbolism: A = central atom, X = surrounding atoms,
E = non-bonding electrons (usually a lone pair)
| Previous slide | Next slide | Back to first slide | View graphic version |