Question
Chemistry Question on Hybridisation
The shape of a molecule of NH3, in which the central atom contains a lone pair of electrons, is
tetrahedral
trigonal planar
square planar
pyramidal
pyramidal
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.