Organic Chemistry (8th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321768418
ISBN 13: 978-0-32176-841-4

Chapter 2 - Structure and Properties of Organic Molecules - Problems - Page 54: Problem 2-2 a

Answer

The hybridization of oxygen is $sp^3$ and the three dimensional structure is shown in the picture.

Work Step by Step

The hybridization is $sp^3$ because there are four domains around the Oxygen: two lone pairs and two bonds. The three dimensional structure is shown in the picture. There are 4 domains around Oxygen so its electronic geometry is tetrahedral. As it is tetrahedral the bond angles should be 109.5 but the bond angle for water is 104.5. This is because the lone pairs on the top of oxygen push the hydrogens down and this reduces the angle to 104.5.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.