Answer: Atoms preferentially direct more p character toward electronegative substituents.
- A Atoms preferentially direct more p character toward electronegative substituents
- B All bond angles must equal exactly 109.5 degrees in any molecule in most textbook accounts
- C Lone pairs usually preferentially occupy equatorial positions mainly during normal conditions
- D All hybrid orbitals on an atom remain perfectly equivalent as generally observed
Correct answer: A. Atoms preferentially direct more p character toward electronegative substituents
Explanation: Bent's rule: an atom uses more p character in orbitals directed toward more electronegative substituents, and more s character toward less electronegative groups.
VSEPR theory predicts molecular shape from the number of bonding and lone electron pairs around the central atom.
Concept context
Understand how atoms join to form molecules. Covers ionic and covalent bonding, VSEPR theory, hybridization (sp, sp², sp³), molecular orbital theory, bond polarity, and intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonding.
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