What determines the shape of a molecule like CH4?
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A.
The number of atoms in the molecule
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B.
The overlap of atomic orbitals
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C.
The temperature at which the molecule is formed
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D.
The ionisation energy of atoms
Correct Answer:
B. The overlap of atomic orbitals
Explanation:
The shape of a molecule like CH4 (methane) is defined by the overlap of atomic orbitals, specifically through the process of hybridization. Carbon undergoes sp3 hybridization, where one s orbital and three p orbitals combine to form four equivalent hybrid orbitals. These orbitals arrange themselves in a tetrahedral geometry to minimize electron repulsion, ensuring the maximum distance between the bonding pairs of electrons. While factors like the number of atoms provide the chemical formula, it is the specific spatial arrangement and overlapping of these electron orbitals that dictates the actual three-dimensional structure.
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