Which molecule most likely to deviate from ideal values?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the factors influencing bond angle deviations from ideal values in molecular structures, specifically examining molecules such as BrCl3 and XeCl4. Key contributors to these deviations include the presence and placement of lone pairs on the central atom, as explained through the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory. The conversation highlights that while both BrCl3 and XeCl4 have two pairs of lone electrons, their bond angles can still differ due to the spatial arrangement of these pairs. The role of isotopes, such as 35Cl versus 36Cl in CCl4, is also mentioned as a potential factor affecting molecular symmetry.

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  • Understanding of VSEPR theory
  • Knowledge of molecular geometry and bond angles
  • Familiarity with the concept of lone pairs in chemistry
  • Basic understanding of isotopes and their effects on molecular properties
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  • Study the bond angles of various molecules using VSEPR theory
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LegitSci
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Hi,

Hoping I could get some help on this one.
How would I know what causes bond angles to deviate from the ideal values?

I greatly appreciate any help and advice on this.

Thanks
 
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Anything that breaks the symmetry; 35Cl instead of 36 in a CCl4 molecule; you name it.
 
Is there any connection between polarity?
 
LegitSci said:
polarity?
Bystander said:
You name it.
 
If so, how would you compare between different molecules? Like if I were to compare which molecules deviated THE MOST from the "ideal" values...
for example BrCl3, XeCl4, or CO
 
does deviation correspond to the number of lone pairs on the central atom, but even then XeCl4 and BrCl3 both have 2 pairs so I'm super confused.
Or does it have to do with location of the lone pairs?
 
LegitSci said:
bond angles
CO? A straight line is a straight line. What are the "ideal" values for the other two? Which isotopes/isotope combinations are you considering "ideal?"
LegitSci said:
XeCl4 and BrCl3 both have 2 pairs
Two pairs? What are you counting?
 
but arent there lone pairs of electrons for central atom (either C or O) CO or do they not affect the bond angles?

for XeCl4 and BrCl3, I am counting the number of lone pairs of electrons.
so there would be 2 pairs of lone pairs on the central atom (Xe and Br, respectively), right?
 
I am considering the VSEPR to be "ideal", sorry for any confusion
 
  • #10
I think I got it. It has to do with the placement of lone pair of electrons on the central atom.

Thanks
 
  • #11
LegitSci said:
central atom (either C or O) CO
One bond can NOT make an angle.
LegitSci said:
would be 2 pairs of lone pairs on the central atom (Xe and Br, respectively)
Yes.
LegitSci said:
VSEPR
So, that's back in fashion --- two pairs --- one on one side and the other opposite --- "pair repulsion" --- what are your thoughts?
 
  • #12
LegitSci said:
I think I got it. It has to do with the placement of lone pair of electrons on the central atom.
Yes --- You're welcome.
 

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