What are the lone pair angles in H2O according to VSEPR theory?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the angles between lone pairs in the H2O molecule according to VSEPR theory. Participants explore the geometry of the water molecule, specifically addressing the bond angles and the influence of lone pairs on these angles.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that the bond angles in H2O are 109.5° but questions the angles between the lone pairs.
  • Another participant suggests that the angle is actually 104.45°, arguing that lone pairs occupy more space than bonding pairs, which affects the angles.
  • A third participant emphasizes that H2O is bent and asserts that 109.5° is incorrect, referencing a previous post for the correct value.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the specific angle measurements in H2O, with differing views on whether the angle is 109.5° or 104.45°. The discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the exact angles, and there are indications of differing interpretations of VSEPR theory as it applies to lone pairs and bond angles.

alingy1
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Homework Statement



What are the angles between lone pairs in H2O? I know that the bonds are separated by 109.5°. What about the lone pair angles? I googled everything. I found nothing. I cannot directly assume it is 109.5°... I have a basic knowledge of VSEPR.
 
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alingy1 said:
I know that the bonds are separated by 109.5°.
Really? I thought it was 104.45 degrees.
In VSEPR, both bonding and lone pairs should be distributed approximately along the corners of a tetrahedron. Lone pairs are a bit more space filling than bonding pairs, so that the angle between the lone pairs is somewhat larger.
 
I will double check my answers before posting.
 
Last edited:
Treedude said:
H2O is bent. 109.5

H2O is bent, but 109.5 is incorrect. Water molecule is not tetrahedral. DrDu already posted a correct value.
 

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