TRIGONAL BIPYRAMIDAL MOLECULAR GEOMETRY Meaning and
Definition
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Trigonal Bipyramidal Molecular Geometry is a term used in chemistry to describe the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule. It refers to the shape assumed by a central atom surrounded by five other atoms or electron pairs. In this geometry, the central atom is located at the center of a three-dimensional structure, with three atoms or groups of atoms arranged in a plane around it and two more atoms or groups of atoms situated above and below this plane.
The term "trigonal" describes the three equatorial atoms or groups of atoms that are positioned in a triangular arrangement around the central atom. These equatorial atoms are all separated by an angle of 120 degrees, resulting in a planar triangular shape. The term "bipyramidal" indicates the two additional atoms or groups of atoms that are situated above and below the triangular plane formed by the equatorial atoms. These two atoms are separated from the equatorial plane and each other by an angle of 180 degrees, leading to a three-dimensional shape resembling a bipyramid.
Overall, the trigonal bipyramidal molecular geometry is characterized by its unique arrangement of five atoms or groups of atoms around a central atom, resulting in a symmetrical and well-defined molecular structure. It is commonly observed in molecules with a central atom bonded to five other atoms or groups. Understanding molecular geometries is crucial in chemistry as they influence the physical and chemical properties of compounds and contribute to their reactivity and bonding behavior.
