Molecular Geometry, Polarity, and Intermolecular Forces

Molecular Geometry and Polarity Objectives

1. Be able to predict the three-dimensional shape of a molecule

2. Explain how bond dipoles relate to the overall polarity of a molecule

3. Identify the intermolecular forces that exist within a molecule 

4. Predict trends in molecular properties based upon intermolecular forces

Objective 1. Be able to predict the three-dimensional shape of a molecule

Tasks:

• • Read Section 4.1 in your text

  • Watch the course video VSEPR

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Explain the basis of VSEPR theory

  • Explain the difference between electron geometry and molecular geometry

  • Predict the electron and molecular geometries of molecules based upon the Lewis dot structure 

Objective 2. Explain how bond dipoles relate to the overall polarity of a molecule

Tasks:

• • Read Section 4.2 in your text

  • Watch the course video Polarity

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Classify all bonds in a molecule as polar or non-polar

  • Evaluate all bonds in a molecule to determine if the overall molecule is polar or non-polar

Objective 3. Identify the intermolecular forces that exist within a molecule 

Tasks:

• • Read Section 4.3 in your text

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Identify all types of intermolecular forces present in a molecule

Objective 4. Predict trends in molecular properties based upon intermolecular forces

Tasks:

• • Watch the course video Intermolecular Forces

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Predict trends such as boiling point of similar molecules