Although geometries of NH3 and H2O molec | Class 11 Chemistry Chapter Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure, Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 4 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 8:

Although geometries of NH3 and H2O molecules are distorted tetrahedral, bond angle in water is less than that of ammonia. Discuss.

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 8:

Although geometries of NH3 and H2O molecules are distorted tetrahedral, bond angle in water is less than that of ammonia. Discuss.

Answer:

The tetrahedral geometry shown by NH3 & H2O is

 

In NH3, the N atom is surrounded by three bond pairs (N—H) and one lone pair of electrons, which is present on the N atom. The repulsion shown by one lone pair in NH3 towards the three bond pair is very less because the number of bonding electrons is more as compared to lone pair of electron, as a result there will be less repulsion between the lone pair and bonding electrons. So, the bond angle is 107, nearer to normal tetrahedral bond angle of 109°.5’.

But in case of H2O, the O atom is surrounded by two bond pairs and two lone pair of electrons. Consequently, the repulsion will be stronger and greater between the lone pairs and bond pairs. The bond pairs will be repelled more by the lone pairs, resulting in decrease of bond angle to 104°, as compared to normal tetrahedral bond angle 109°.5’.

Therefore instead NH3 and H2O have tetrahedral geometry, still they have different bond angles.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 8: Although geometries of NH3 and H2O molecules are distorted tetrahedral, bond angle in water is less ....

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