๐Ÿข‚ CLICK AND DRAG TO ROTATE MOLECULE ๐Ÿข€
Central Atom
Bonded Atom

Concept Quiz

Fundamental Electron Geometries

VSEPR Theory dictates that electron pairs surrounding a central atom will position themselves as far apart as mathematically possible to minimize electrostatic repulsion. The number of electron domains (bonds + lone pairs) determines the fundamental symmetric geometry.

Steric Number (SN) = # of Bonded Atoms
When there are ZERO lone pairs, the Molecular Shape is identical to the Electron Geometry. This simulation demonstrates these 6 perfect, symmetrical base shapes.