VSEPR Theory: Polar and Nonpolar Molecules

Front

What does VSEPR stand for?

Back

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion

Front

What can the shape of a molecule determine in VSEPR theory?

Back

Whether it is polar or nonpolar.

Front

What are polar molecules?

Back

Molecules with a net dipole moment due to bond arrangement and electronegativity differences.

Front

Name a common VSEPR shape that results in polar molecules.

Back

Bent (e.g., water, H₂O)

Front

Give an example of a trigonal pyramidal polar molecule.

Back

Ammonia, NH₃

Front

What are seesaw and T-shaped configurations examples of?

Back

Polar molecules (e.g., SF₄ and ClF₃).

Front

What are nonpolar molecules?

Back

Molecules with symmetrical shapes that allow dipoles to cancel out.

Front

Name a common nonpolar VSEPR shape.

Back

Linear (e.g., carbon dioxide, CO₂)

Front

Give an example of a trigonal planar nonpolar molecule.

Back

Boron trifluoride, BF₃

Front

What condition makes a tetrahedral molecule nonpolar?

Back

If all four substituents are the same (e.g., methane, CH₄).