What is the bond angle in the water molecule (H2O)? (2023)

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Question: What is the bond angle in the water molecule (H2O)? (2023)

Options:

Correct Answer: 104.5 degrees

Exam Year: 2023

Solution:

The bond angle in a water molecule is approximately 104.5 degrees due to the bent shape caused by lone pairs on oxygen.

What is the bond angle in the water molecule (H2O)? (2023)

What is the bond angle in the water molecule (H2O)? (2023)

Step 1: Understand that a water molecule (H2O) consists of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms.
Step 2: Recognize that the oxygen atom has two lone pairs of electrons that are not involved in bonding.
Step 3: Know that these lone pairs push the hydrogen atoms closer together, creating a bent shape.
Step 4: Measure the angle between the two hydrogen atoms; this is called the bond angle.
Step 5: Conclude that the bond angle in a water molecule is approximately 104.5 degrees.

Molecular Geometry – Understanding the shape of molecules based on VSEPR theory, which explains how electron pairs influence bond angles.
Lone Pairs – Recognizing the effect of lone pairs on the central atom, which can distort bond angles from the ideal geometry.
Bond Angles – Knowledge of specific bond angles in common molecules, particularly those with non-linear shapes.