Electron density

[Noh_Jasmine_1J]

does electron density only refer to the central atom? and is the electron density around the central atom the only one we use to determine molecular shape?

[Esha Harwalkar 3F]

yes, the electron density only refers to the central atom and that is what we used to determine the shape of the molecule. If there are lone pairs, this will change the shape name and bond angles between the atoms.

[daisyjimenezt]

Yes, only the central atom

[Ian Marquez 2K]

In the VSEPR model, only refer to the central atom when talking about electron density. The presence of lone pairs on the central atom will change the molecular shape of the molecule. Note that molecular shape and electron geometry are different as electron geometry just notes the areas of electron density.

[Aria Soeprono 2F]

When determining the bond angles for the VSEPR model, you could also think of electron density of the center atom in terms of the outer atoms. It may be easier to think of it like you are trying to make each atom as far apart as possible, and therefore creating the largest bond angles possible.

[Sameen Mahmood 3D]

Yes, the electron density around the central atom is the one we use to determine molecular shape. Though regions of electron density refer to lone pairs and bonding regions, so I think they can refer to atoms other than the central atom.

[Shash Khemka 1K]

Yes, it refers only to the central atom. Electron density is counted as 1 for single, double, and triple bonds. You can utilize Electron Density in naming structures in regards to the "count" by referencing and memorizing the "counts" for names.