Molecules with Trigonal Pyramidal Parent Structures

Several different molecular structures can result from the placement of atoms in a molecule with a trigonal planar Parent Structure. We will focus on three of these

• No unshared pairs of electrons gives a trigonal planar Molecular Structure.
• 1 unshared pair of electrons gives a seesaw Molecular Structure.
• 3 unshared pairs of electrons gives a linear structure.

Remember, a Molecular Structure describes the positions of the atoms in a molecule. The positions of unshared pairs of electrons are not considered when naming a Molecular Structure.

Using your model kit, build a model of each of the following figures. The color of the atoms do not have to match. Use extra (unused) prongs on the central atom to represent any unshared pairs of electrons.

On your report sheet answer the questions about the models.