4.19 6th edition

[Lina Petrossian 1D]

4.19 Predict the shapes and estimate the bond angles of (a) the thiosulfate ion, S2O32-; (b) (CH3)2Be; (c) BH2-; (d) SnCl2.

Could someone explain how they determined the bond angles as well as explain why part b is linear?

[Samantha Kwock 1D]

After drawing the Lewis structure and determining the VSEPR shape, the bond angle can be determined from the shape. Each VSEPR shape has certain bond angles associated with the shape. Part (b) is linear because the Lewis structure consists of Be bonded to two CH3 groups. The central atom Be only has two regions of electron density bonded to it so its VSEPR shape is linear.

[Stephen Sirmay 1I]

Remember that determining molecular shape is based on the number of regions of electron density around the central atom, not necessarily the number of elements associated with the ion.

[ThomascnguyenDis1J]

When dealing with multiple compounds bonding to each other, what is the best way to determine its molecular shape?

[Lina Petrossian 1D]

When dealing with multiple compounds bonding to each other, what is the best way to determine its molecular shape?

I would say look at it one atom at a time. I believe we are not responsible for figuring out the shapes of molecules with many bonds.