VSEPR Theory: Investigating Ionic Molecules

In summary, the conversation discusses VSEPR theory and how it is used to determine the polarity of molecules. The question specifically focuses on the polarity of beryllium fluoride, which is found to be nonpolar despite being an ionic compound. The concept of percentage ionic character is also mentioned as a way to determine the degree of ionicity in a substance.
  • #1
Tanya Back
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Vsepr Theory

Hey Guys! How are u guys doing today?

I was wondering how do we know dat BeF2 is polar?..i drew it out by using the VSEPR theory..but what confuses me is dat BeF2 ionic..can we still use VSEPR theory to draw it out?

Tanya

Thank you in advance! :smile:
 
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  • #2
Oh Silly me! Ionic bonds are polar bonds.. opps!
 
  • #3
Strictly speaking, there is nothing that is "ionic". Its a tradeoff between the ionic character and the covalent character that a molecule has. Something that is largely covalent (such as water for example) is usually passed off as a covalent compound as it predominantly behaves so.

Your question was, how do we know that berrylium fluoride is polar. Well, from the VSEPR theory, BeF2 turns out to be linear and it cannot be polar. There are of course bond dipoles but they are oriented antiparallel to each other which makes the net dipole moment of the molecule zero.

If you were asked to find out whether a given substance is covalent or ionic, you would (in theory) calculate its percentage ionic character from a knowledge of the measured dipole moment and the dipole moment for 100% ionic character. This would tell you to what degree is the substance ionic (or covalent).
 

1. What is VSEPR Theory?

VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) Theory is a model used to predict the molecular geometry of covalently bonded molecules. It is based on the principle that electron pairs in the valence shell of an atom repel each other and will arrange themselves to be as far apart as possible.

2. How does VSEPR Theory apply to ionic molecules?

VSEPR Theory can also be applied to ionic molecules, as the same principle of electron pair repulsion still applies. However, in this case, the central atom will be an ion rather than a neutral atom, and the surrounding atoms will be ions of opposite charge.

3. What is the significance of VSEPR Theory in chemistry?

VSEPR Theory is significant in chemistry because it allows us to predict the shapes of molecules, which in turn can help us understand their chemical and physical properties. It is also useful in determining the polarity of molecules and their reactivity.

4. Can VSEPR Theory be used to predict the bond angles in a molecule?

Yes, VSEPR Theory can be used to predict the bond angles in a molecule. The number of bonding and non-bonding electron pairs around the central atom will determine the molecular geometry, and therefore the bond angles.

5. Are there any limitations to VSEPR Theory?

While VSEPR Theory is a useful model, it does have its limitations. It does not take into account the effects of lone pairs and their repulsion on the bond angles, and it may not accurately predict the geometry of molecules with multiple bonds or complex structures. Other factors, such as hybridization and molecular orbital theory, may need to be considered in these cases.

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