Wolfram Demonstrations Project

The basic principle of the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory:

Each group of valence electrons around a central atom is located as far as possible from the others in order to minimize repulsions.

Each type of model is made of:

A — central atom

X — ligand (bonding electron pair)

E — nonbonding electron pair

The five basic molecular shapes:

• linear

• trigonal planar

• tetrahedral

• trigonal bipyramidal

• octahedral

The Integrated Data Sources for ChemicalData were very helpful in finding multiple examples for the various types of VSEPR models.

Based on: Polytopes Package in Mathematica

RELATED RESOURCES

Mathematica » The #1 tool for creating Demonstrations and anything technical.	Wolfram\|Alpha » Explore anything with the first computational knowledge engine.	MathWorld » The web's most extensive mathematics resource.	Course Assistant Apps » An app for every course— right in the palm of your hand.
Wolfram Blog » Read our views on math, science, and technology.	Computable Document Format » The format that makes Demonstrations (and any information) easy to share and interact with.	STEM Initiative » Programs & resources for educators, schools & students.	Computerbasedmath.org » Join the initiative for modernizing math education.

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) Theory