VSEPR Formula Exceptions

[Jacob Puchalski 1G]

Are there ever any exceptions to the VSEPR formula? Or can we always rely on it?

[Joanne Kang 3I]

Not sure. If you look up the VESPR theory chart, it can give you all the possibilities of VESPR shapes.

[AArmellini_1I]

I don't believe Lavelle has mentioned any so in terms of his class, I don't think you have to worry

[Zoya Mulji 1K]

We probably don't have to deal with *exceptions* but still have to consider the changes when lone pairs are added or when different bonding atoms are changed.

[Alan Wu]

This isn't really an exception, but consider AX2E3. This will give you a linear molecule, with bond angle 180 degrees, as opposed to angular or bent.

[Arianna Perea 3H]

if you know the formula, will determining the shape and angles be easier to identify?

[Sarah Zhari 1D]

If you know the formula, you would be able to draw the Lewis structures, and you would know the number of bonding and non-bonding pairs of electrons around the central atom, so, I think it would be easier to apply VSEPR theory in that case.