Valence shell electron-pair repulsion predicting molecular structure

In one respect the valence shell electron-pair repulsion theory is no better (and no worse) than other theories of molecular structure. Predictions can only be made when the constitution is known, i.e. when it is already known which and how many atoms are joined... 

In this chapter a few simple rules for predicting molecular structures will be investigated. We shall examine first the valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) model, and then a purely molecular orbital treatment. 

The molecular structures adopted by simple carbonyl complexes are generally compatible with predictions based on valence shell electron pair repulsion theory. Three representative examples from the first transition series are shown in Fig. 15.2. 

Like so many other molecular properties, shape is determined by the electronic structure of the bonded atoms. The approximate shape of a molecule can often be predicted by using what is called the valence-shell electron-pair repulsion (VSEPR) model. Electrons in bonds and in lone pairs can be thought of as "charge clouds" that repel one another and stay as far apart as possible, thus causing molecules to assume specific shapes. There are only two steps to remember in applying the VSEPR method ... 

Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory (VSEPR) provides a method for predicting the shape of molecules, based on the electron pair electrostatic repulsion. It was described by Sidgwick and Powell" in 1940 and further developed by Gillespie and Nyholm in 1957. In spite of this method s very simple approach, based on Lewis electron-dot structures, the VSEPR method predicts shapes that compare favorably with those determined experimentally. However, this approach at best provides approximate shapes for molecules, not a complete picture of bonding. The most common method of determining the actual stmctures is X-ray diffraction, although electron diffraction, neutron diffraction, and many types of spectroscopy are also used. In Chapter 5, we will provide some of the molecular orbital arguments for the shapes of simple molecules. 

Skill 1.3c-Predict molecular geometries using Lewis dot structures and hybridized atomic orbitals, e.g., valence shell electron pair repulsion model (VSEPR)... 

Many experimental methods now exist for determining the molecular stmcture of a molecule—that is, the three-dimensional arrangement of the atoms. These methods must be used when accurate information about the stmcture is required. However, it is often useful to be able to predict the approximate molecular structure of a molecule. Now we will consider a simple model that allows us to do this. The valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) modei is useful for predicting the molecular structures of molecules formed from nonmetals. The main idea of this model is that... 

Molecular structure can be predicted by using the valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) model. 

THE VSEPR MODEL We see how molecular geometries can be predicted using the valence-shell electron-pair repulsion, or VSEPR, model, which is based on Lewis structures and the repulsions between regions of high electron density. 

Last, you have learned to predict the three-dimensional structure of molecules using the valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) model and molecular orbital (MO) theory. An ability to predict three-dimensional structure is critical to understanding the properties and reactivity of molecules. 

Knowledge of the accurate electron density is decisive especially for the development of chemical concepts that are based on the analysis of this observable. Such concepts are Gillespie s valence-shell electron-pair repulsion model [1149] or the ligand-induced charge concentrations [880,1150-1152] that are designed to predict molecular structures and even chemical reactivity. Both approaches can be related to Bader s theory of atoms in molecules [1153], for which relativistic generalizations have been discussed in the literature [1154,1155]. 

In Appendix 2 is outlined the most popular and successful simple model for predicting molecular geometry of main group compounds, the valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) model. However, alongside it are presented the results of some detailed calculations which prompt the comment the VSEPR model usually makes correct predictions, but there is no simple reason why . The problem of the bonding in transition metal complexes will be the subject of models presented in Chapters 6, 7 and 10 this last chapter reviews the current situation. At this point it is sufficient to comment that the most useful applications of current simple theory are those that start with the observed structure and work from there. In the opinion of the author, the general answer to the question posed at the head of this section is that we really do not know. 

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