3. this is a diagram of ammonia. this molecule has a central nitrogen atom singly bonded to three hydrogen…

3. this is a diagram of ammonia. this molecule has a central nitrogen atom singly bonded to three hydrogen atoms. the nitrogen atom also has one lone pair of electrons. the shape of this molecule can be classified as ______.\n\na) linear\nb) trigonal planar\nc) tetrahedral\nd) trigonal pyramidal

3. this is a diagram of ammonia. this molecule has a central nitrogen atom singly bonded to three hydrogen atoms. the nitrogen atom also has one lone pair of electrons. the shape of this molecule can be classified as ______.\n\na) linear\nb) trigonal planar\nc) tetrahedral\nd) trigonal pyramidal

Answer

Explanation:

Step1: Identify electron domains

The central nitrogen atom has 3 bonding pairs (with hydrogen) and 1 lone pair. $$3 \text{ bonding pairs} + 1 \text{ lone pair} = 4 \text{ electron domains}$$

Step2: Determine electron geometry

Four electron domains result in a tetrahedral electron geometry. $$\text{Steric Number} = 4 \rightarrow \text{Tetrahedral Geometry}$$

Step3: Determine molecular shape

With 3 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair, the lone pair repels the bonds, creating a pyramid. $$\text{AX}{3}\text{E}{1} \text{ configuration} \rightarrow \text{Trigonal Pyramidal}$$

Answer:

D) trigonal pyramidal