VSEPR Formula with Multiple Central Atoms

[Sofia Lucido 3L]

For a molecule with more than one central atom, how would writing the VSEPR formula work? Would we write two different formulas for each central atom?

[reyvalui_3g]

For a molecule with multiple central atoms, each central atom only has one shape.

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[Anna Yakura 2F]

Hello, I think there was a problem in the textbook like this. My impression was that you just write the VSEPR formula/shape in relation to the atom that the question asks about, and only take into account the atoms that they are directly bonded to. I hope this makes sense.

[Lily Kiamanesh 2G]

Hi, page 106 in the textbook explains this with the example of Ethene, C₂H₄. To apply VSEPR, you do it to all of the central atoms while "ignoring" the other central atoms. In the case of ethene, that makes the electron arrangement around each carbon the Trigonal Planar shape.

[OwenSumter_2F]

This is also featured in multiple sapling questions about hybridization, where it focuses on one central atom and then another.

[Crystal Yu 1D]

Hello, so VSEPR is meant to describe the shape with relation to one atom, usually the central atom. In the case that there are multiple central atoms, you would be given a specific atom to reference the shape to. This way you will still be able to describe the shape. For example, C2H4 is trigonal planar around each C atom. I hope this helps! :)