VSEPR Theory and Molecular Shapes

Part B: More Complex Molecules

This page contains links to exercises with more complex structures often involving more than one central atom. Many of these molecules have an important role in naval applications or other applied areas of chemistry. Apply the principles of VSEPR theory and use your model kits to build models of these compounds. By following the links you can get some guidance including a computer-generated version of the 3-D molecular structure.

Tabun (A chemical weapon nerve agent.)

Sarin (The chemical nerve agent that was deployed in a terrorist attack in the Tokyo subway in 1995.)

Ethanol (A water-soluble alcohol)

Octane (a straight-chain hydrocarbon found in gasoline)

Ozone (an important component of the upper atmosphere that absorbs ultraviolet radiation)

Acetic Acid (the weak acid found in vinegar.)

Acetate Ion (the conjugate base of acetic acid)

Adrenaline (a hormone (chemical messenger in the body), also known as epinepherine)

Kevlar (a strong polymer used to make bullet-proof vests)

MEK (methyl ethyl ketone, a.k.a  2-butanone, a solvent used for cleaning and degreasing)

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