VSEPR Shapes Explorer

Predict 3D molecular shapes from Lewis structures using VSEPR theory.

Water

H₂O

4 domains
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Concepts

What Is VSEPR?

VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory predicts the 3D shape of a molecule from its Lewis structure.

The key idea: electron domains repel each other and arrange themselves to maximize distance. This determines the geometry.

1. Count electron domains

Each bond (single, double, or triple) and each lone pair counts as one electron domain.

2. Determine the arrangement

2 domains → linear, 3 → trigonal planar, 4 → tetrahedral.

3. Predict the molecular shape

Remove lone pairs from the picture. The positions of the atoms only define the molecular geometry.

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About This Molecule

Water (H₂O)

Central atom: O · 2 bonding + 2 lone pairs = 4 domains

ED: TetrahedralBent

VSEPR Prediction Table

EDLPED Geom.Mol. Geom.
20LinearLinear
30Trig. PlanarTrig. Planar
40TetrahedralTetrahedral
41TetrahedralTrig. Pyramidal
42TetrahedralBent
43TetrahedralLinear