Tetrahedral

Definition

A tetrahedral molecular geometry involves a central atom bonded to four surrounding atoms, situated at the corners of a tetrahedron. The bond angles between the atoms are approximately 109.5 degrees.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ideal bond angle in a perfect tetrahedral molecule is 109.5 degrees.
2. Methane (CH₄) is a classic example of a molecule with a tetrahedral geometry.
3. Tetrahedral geometry occurs when there are four bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the central atom.
4. The hybridization associated with tetrahedral geometry is sp³.
5. Tetrahedral molecules are generally non-polar if all four substituents are identical.

Review Questions

• What is the ideal bond angle in a tetrahedral molecule?
• Which type of hybridization corresponds to a tetrahedral geometry?
• Can you name an example of a molecule that has a tetrahedral shape?

Related terms

Bond Angle: The angle formed between three atoms across at least two bonds.

Hybridization: The concept of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for pairing electrons to form chemical bonds.

Lone Pair: A pair of valence electrons that are not shared with another atom and is sometimes called an unshared pair or non-bonding pair.