Question

The charge structural shape of water is

• A. Di-octahedral
• B. Tri-octahedral
• C. Tetrahedral
• D. Rhomboidal

Hint:

Water geometry: Electronic charge distribution = Tetrahedral ($sp^3$). Molecular shape = Bent V-shaped (angle $104.5^\circ$).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The electronic charge distribution of a water molecule (\(\text{H}_2\text{O}\)) is governed by \(sp^3\) hybridization of the central oxygen atom.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{Oxygen } (sp^3): 2\text{ O-H bonding pairs} + 2\text{ lone electron pairs} \implies \text{Tetrahedral Charge Geometry} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In a water molecule ($\text{H}_2\text{O}$), the central oxygen atom undergoes $sp^3$ hybridization with four valence electron pairs:
- Two pairs form covalent $\text{O}-\text{H}$ sigma bonds.
- Two pairs remain as non-bonding lone electron pairs.
These four electron pairs orient toward the four vertices of a tetrahedron to minimize electrostatic repulsion.
While the atomic nuclear geometry is bent/V-shaped (bond angle $104.5^\circ$), the spatial electronic charge structural distribution is approximately tetrahedral.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the charge structural shape of water is Tetrahedral, corresponding to option (C).