To determine the molecular geometries of NO₄³⁻ (tetroxidonitratate(1−)) and SO₂ (sulfur dioxide), we need to analyze the arrangement of atoms and lone pairs around the central atom in each molecule.
1. Molecular Geometry of NO₄³⁻
NO₄³⁻ has a central nitrogen atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms. To determine its geometry, we can use VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory, which suggests that electron pairs around a central atom will position themselves as far apart as possible.
In NO₄³⁻, with no lone pairs on nitrogen and four bonding pairs (oxygen atoms), the structure takes on a tetrahedral geometry. Therefore, the molecular geometry is tetrahedral.
2. Molecular Geometry of SO₂
For SO₂, sulfur is the central atom with two oxygen atoms bonded to it and one lone pair of electrons. Again applying VSEPR theory, the presence of the lone pair affects the arrangement. The two oxygen atoms are bonded in a way that they minimize repulsion with the lone pair, leading to a bent shape.
Thus, the molecular geometry of SO₂ is bent.
In summary:
- NO₄³⁻: Molecular Geometry – Tetrahedral
- SO₂: Molecular Geometry – Bent