Which molecular shape corresponds to a molecule with a central atom that has one lone pair and three bonding pairs?

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Q: Which molecular shape corresponds to a molecule with a central atom that has one lone pair and three bonding pairs?

Solution: A central atom with one lone pair and three bonding pairs adopts a trigonal pyramidal shape due to the repulsion of the lone pair.

Steps: 6

Step 1: Identify the central atom in the molecule.
Step 2: Count the number of lone pairs on the central atom. In this case, there is 1 lone pair.
Step 3: Count the number of bonding pairs (the number of atoms bonded to the central atom). Here, there are 3 bonding pairs.
Step 4: Understand that the shape of a molecule is influenced by the arrangement of lone pairs and bonding pairs.
Step 5: Recognize that a central atom with 1 lone pair and 3 bonding pairs will have a trigonal pyramidal shape.
Step 6: Remember that the lone pair pushes down on the bonding pairs, creating a pyramid-like structure.