What is the structural geometry of a methane molecule (CH4) according to Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Methane possesses a tetrahedral molecular geometry as predicted by the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory, resulting from four bonding electron pairs repelling each other around the central carbon atom to achieve a bond angle of 109.5°. This symmetrical arrangement minimizes electrostatic repulsion between electron clouds. Simple hydrocarbon molecules serve as foundational examples for understanding covalent bonding and molecular shapes in chemistry.