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Question

Chemistry Question on Hybridisation

The shape of a molecule of NH3_3, in which the central atom contains a lone pair of electrons, is

A

tetrahedral

B

trigonal planar

C

square planar

D

pyramidal

Answer

pyramidal

Explanation

Solution

The VSEPR hypothesis, also known as the "Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory," is based on the idea that all atoms have a repulsion between their pairs of valence electrons and that these atoms will always seek to organize themselves in a way that minimizes this repulsion. The shape of the final molecule is determined by this atom arrangement.

Around the core nitrogen atom of ammonia, there are 4 areas with high electron densities (3 bonds and 1 lone pair). They are positioned in a tetrahedral pattern. With H-N-H angles of 106.7°, the resultant molecular shape is trigonal pyramidal. The same structure is demonstrated as follows:

So, the structure looks like Trigonal Pyramidal.

  • The gas ammonia has no color.
  • Ammonia has a distinctive, powerful, pungent aroma that may be quite uncomfortable and constricting to the nose.
  • Ammonia may be written as NH3, while nitrogen can be expressed as 1s2 2s2 2p3 in its electronic state. As a result, it is clear that nitrogen and hydrogen combine to create three bonds, leaving two lone pairs in their wake. Ammonia functions as a Lewis base as a result of these lone pairs.
  • Ammonia, which is lighter than air, is very soluble in water.
  • Artificial nitrogen fertilizers are created using ammonia.
  • Under pressure, ammonia can liquefy. This liquid ammonia is subsequently employed as a refrigerant.
  • Ammonia is used to create colors, medicines, and cosmetics as well as fibers for the textile industry.
  • Ammonia is a necessary solvent that is frequently employed in scientific settings.