Basic VSEPR

Investigate atom geometries using VSEPR rules.

Task

Build and minimize simple molecules to illustrate VSEPR geometry.

• For organic-type molecules, use the MMFF94 forcefield.

examples: methane, water, ammonia, etc.

• For octahedral-based geometries, use the UFF forcefield which is optimized for all elements.

examples: \(\ce{SF6}\), \(\ce{IF5}\), \(\ce{XeF4}\), etc.

• Try even 7, 8, or 9 atoms around a central metal - how do the VSEPR rules extend beyond octahedral molecules?

See also

Organic Hybridization

Further readings

Wikipedia: VSEPR theory

Issues

• Geometries derived from the trigonal bipyramidal geometry are not currently reliable.
• When using the Draw tool, you may wish to uncheck the “Adjust Hydrogens” box.