Question

The geometry of methane molecule is

• A. Tetrahedral
• B. Pyramidal
• C. Octahedral
• D. Square planar

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Tetrahedral

Explanation for correct option

(A)Tetrahedral

• The formula for methane molecule is ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$.
• The structure of ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$ is as follows:-

• In the above molecule, four bond pair is present and zero lone pair is present.
• The hybridization of ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$ is ${\mathrm{sp}}^3$.
• So, the geometry of methane is tetrahedral.

Explanation for incorrect option

(B)

• An example of pyramidal geometry is ${\mathrm{NH}}_3$.
• Three bond pair and one lone pair is present on the central atom.
• So, the hybridization of ${\mathrm{NH}}_3$ is ${\mathrm{sp}}^3$.

(C)

• An example of octahedral geometry is ${\mathrm{SF}}_6$.
• It undergoes ${\mathrm{sp}}^3{\mathrm{d}}^2$ hybridization, which results in an octahedral geometry.

(D)

• An example of a square planar geometry is ${\mathrm{XeF}}_4$.
• Four bond pair and two lone pair is present on the central atom.
• It undergoes ${\mathrm{sp}}^3{\mathrm{d}}^2$ hybridization.

The geometry of methane is tetrahedral. Hence, the options (B), (C), and (D) are incorrect.

Hence, option (A) is correct. The geometry of methane is tetrahedral.