Explain geometry of NH3 molecule according to VSEPR theory.

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answered Jan 12, 2022 by Ayushsingh (25.6k points)
selected Jan 20, 2022 by Meenakshikaur

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In NH₃molecule, the central atom nitrogen has five electrons in its valence shell. On bond formation with three hydrogen atoms, there are 8 electrons in the valence shell of nitrogen. Out of these, three pairs are bond pairs (N – H covalent bonds) and one forms lone pair. The expected geometry is tetrahedral and bond angle is 109° 28′.
There are two types of repulsions between the electron pairs: Lone pair – bond pair and bond pair – bond pair
The lone pair – bond pair repulsions are stronger and the bonded pairs are pushed inwards. Thus, reducing the bond angle to 107°18′ and shape of the molecule becomes trigonal pyramidal.

Diagram :

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