Problem: How would we modify the figure if we were looking at PH3 rather than NH3?

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We are asked how would we modify the figure if we were looking at PH3 rather than NH3.


Compare the molecules: 

  • We can observe that we both have 3 H on each molecule. 
  • If we look at the periodic table, we can see that P and N are both on group 5A.


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Problem Details

How would we modify the figure if we were looking at PH3 rather than NH3?

1) Draw the Lewis structure. A central N is single bonded left, right, and below to H, and has a single pair of dots above. 2) Determine electron-domain geometry about the central atom from VSEPR model and Table 9.1. A pyramid is drawn, with N at the center. The lone pair of dots is the top point above N, and the three points below N are the three Hs. One is bonded in the plane of the page , one is into the page, and one is out of the page. 3) Using Table 9.4, select sp3 hybrid orbital set. sp3 hybrid orbitals on N overlap with 1s orbitals on three hydrogens to make three N-H bonds. A model of hybrid orbitals shows a central N atom single bonded to three hydrogens, each angled down, and a nonbonding pair above.


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