Molecular Shape

Molecular shape

Molecular shape (the shape that a single molecule has) is important in determining how the molecule interacts and reacts with other molecules. Molecular shape also influences the boiling point and melting point of molecules. If all molecules were linear then life as we know it would not exist.

Many of the properties of molecules come from the particular shape that a molecule has. For example if the water molecule was linear, it would be non-polar and so would not have all the special properties it has.

Let's begin our exploration in the next couple of lessons.