VSEPR Formula
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Re: VSEPR Formula
Yes! One lone pair counts as one region of electron density. Molecular shape should always take into account how many regions of electron density surround the central atom, whether this be a bonded atom or a lone pair.
Re: VSEPR Formula
Yes we do because, for instance, what distinguishes linear from bent shape are the lone pairs so we must look at them when determining molecular shape.
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Re: VSEPR Formula
When finding the molecular shape, you only consider the number of atoms. However, you would first need to figure out the electron arrangement of the molecule which does take into account both the lone pairs and the number of atoms which are basically all the regions of electron density. From there, you then determine which variation of that electron arrangement would be the actual molecular shape of the molecule. For example, in NH2OH, there are 4 regions of electron density which would be a tetrahedral electron arrangement. However, there are only three atoms bonded to the central atom (Nitrogen) and 1 lone pair which results in the molecular shape to be trigonal pyramidal.
Re: VSEPR Formula
Although while naming the molecule, the lone pairs of electrons do not matter, they do influence the molecular geometry of the molecule, and thus change bond angles due to their presence or absence. Each lone pair of electrons represents one region of electron density.
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Re: VSEPR Formula
Lone pairs count as regions within the structure. Be careful because these are not the same as bonding regions and a pair is considered 1 region.
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Re: VSEPR Formula
Yes, lone pairs still count as regions of electron density, however the shapes will be different names with lone pairs than it would be with strictly atom-atom bonding.
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