VSEPR

The **Valence Electron Pair Repulsion theory** states that an electron pair can either be **bonding** (in a bond) or **non-bonding** (**lone pair**). Because electrons are negatively charged and **like charges repel,** the electron pairs will repel one another so that they are arranged with **maximum space** and **minimum repulsion** around the central atom.

[|VSEPR video]

Check out this video clip on an explanation of the VSEPR theory and how it determines shape of molecules.

The VSEPR theory therefore determines the shape of a molecule. There are 5 shapes a molecule can adopt; linear, bent, trigonal planar, tetrahedral or trigonal pyramidal.

This powerpoint is a brief introduction to the shapes.