Which have smallest bond angle? NH3 or N(CH3)3?

  • Thread starter kimiaUNY
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Angle Bond
In summary, NH3 and N(CH3)3 both have trigonal pyramidal molecular structures, but N(CH3)3 has a slightly larger bond angle of approximately 110 degrees compared to NH3's bond angle of approximately 107 degrees. This difference is caused by the presence of three methyl groups in N(CH3)3, which causes repulsion between electron pairs. Other factors that can affect bond angles include the presence of lone pairs of electrons, electronegativity, and atom size. The bond angle can affect the polarity, reactivity, and shape of a molecule, which can ultimately influence its physical and chemical properties. For example, NH3 is highly polar and has a strong odor, while N(CH3)3
  • #1
kimiaUNY
1
0
Please post in HW section and please use the HW template.
Hi guys, which of nh3 and N(CH3)3 have the smallest bond angle?

My answer is NH3, because H is smaller than CH3. so lone pair electron of N can easily push the H and make the bond smaller. Is this right?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Is this homework?
 
  • #3
Definitely looks like one.

kimiaUNY said:
My answer is NH3, because H is smaller than CH3. so lone pair electron of N can easily push the H and make the bond smaller. Is this right?

More or less yes. Somehow I would prefer the explanation based on the term "steric effect".
 

Related to Which have smallest bond angle? NH3 or N(CH3)3?

1. What is the molecular structure of NH3 and N(CH3)3?

NH3, or ammonia, has a trigonal pyramidal molecular structure with a bond angle of approximately 107 degrees. N(CH3)3, or trimethylamine, has a trigonal pyramidal molecular structure with a bond angle of approximately 110 degrees.

2. Which molecule has a smaller bond angle, NH3 or N(CH3)3?

NH3 has a smaller bond angle of approximately 107 degrees, while N(CH3)3 has a slightly larger bond angle of approximately 110 degrees.

3. What causes the difference in bond angles between NH3 and N(CH3)3?

The difference in bond angles between NH3 and N(CH3)3 is due to the presence of three methyl groups in N(CH3)3, which causes repulsion between the electron pairs and results in a slightly larger bond angle.

4. Are there any other factors that can affect bond angles in these molecules?

Yes, bond angles can also be affected by the presence of lone pairs of electrons, as well as the electronegativity and size of the atoms involved in the bonding.

5. How does the bond angle affect the properties of NH3 and N(CH3)3?

The bond angle can affect the polarity, reactivity, and shape of a molecule, which can in turn affect its physical and chemical properties. For example, NH3 is highly polar and is known for its strong odor, while N(CH3)3 is less polar and has a weaker odor.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
5K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
642
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
32
Views
3K
Back
Top