What are the different ways bonds can be represented?

[sarvesh0303]

In the following link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Silicon-tetrafluoride-2D-dimensions.png
the bonds are represented pictorially in different ways(like the black triangle). Do these just show the physical structure of the bonds or do they show the different types of bonds?

 

[sjb-2812]

In the following link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Silicon-tetrafluoride-2D-dimensions.png
the bonds are represented pictorially in different ways(like the black triangle). Do these just show the physical structure of the bonds or do they show the different types of bonds?

These are just a way of representing 3-dimensionality. See e.g. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natta_projection or similar

 

[Nguyen Quang]

These 'triangles' are the way of representing a 3-D structure.

A full wedge represents an atom that is coming out of the plane (or closer towards you) while a dotted wedge represents an atom that is behind the plane (or further away from you).

By representing like this, we can see a 3-D structure formed. In the case of SF4, the structure is tetrahedral (pyramid like).

I guess you haven't been taught of this but this is how we have to represent molecules in 'A' level.

 

[PhysicoRaj]

You can compare that with this:

The center is Si and the four greens are fluorine.

 

[sarvesh0303]

Thanks a lot!
@Nguyen Quang: You're right.I'm 15, so I don't know the A level stuff yet

 

[sjb-2812]

...

By representing like this, we can see a 3-D structure formed. In the case of SF₄, the structure is tetrahedral (pyramid like).

I guess you haven't been taught of this but this is how we have to represent molecules in 'A' level.

Just be careful, SF₄ does not have this structure, but SiF₄ does...