VSEPR Theory
Valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory
The shape of a covalent molecule can be predicted using the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory. Very simply, VSEPR theory says that the valence electron pairs in a molecule will arrange themselves around the central atom(s) of the molecule so that the repulsion between their negative charges is as small as possible.
In other words, the valence electron pairs arrange themselves so that they are as far apart as they can be.
Definition: Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory
Valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory is a model in chemistry, which is used to predict the shape of individual molecules. VSEPR is based upon minimising the extent of the electron-pair repulsion around the central atom being considered.
VSEPR theory is based on the idea that the geometry (shape) of a molecule is mostly determined by repulsion among the pairs of electrons around a central atom. The pairs of electrons may be bonding or non-bonding (also called lone pairs). Only valence electrons of the central atom influence the molecular shape in a meaningful way.
This lesson is part of:
Bonding and Atomic Combinations