Question

what is the molecular geometry of sih₄?
○ bent
○ linear
○ tetrahedral
○ trigonal pyramidal
○ not enough information

Explanation:

Step1: Find central atom's valence electrons

Si has 4 valence electrons.

Step2: Count bonding pairs

Si bonds with 4 H atoms (1 bond each), so 4 bonding pairs.

Step3: Determine electron domain geometry

4 electron domains (all bonding) → tetrahedral.

Step4: Match molecular geometry

No lone pairs, so molecular geometry = electron domain geometry.

Answer:

tetrahedral