Uploaded September 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
In this video, we'll learn how to use AXE notation to figure out the molecular geometry of different molecules. The AXE notation focuses on the central atom (A), the number of atoms bonded to it (X), and the number of lone pairs of electrons (E) on the central atom. Understanding these parts is key to determining the shape of any molecule. We'll work through four examples to show you exactly how this method is applied.
Also, in this video, I’ll briefly mention another method called the steric number method, which can also help you figure out molecular geometry.
You can find more information on that method here: youtu.be/Moj85zwdULg
For the AXE notation, the first step is to correctly draw the Lewis structure of the molecule. From the Lewis structure, we can easily identify the number of atoms attached to the central atom and the lone pairs. It's crucial to understand the difference between lone pairs and bonding pairs of electrons, as this affects the overall molecular shape.
Lone Pair vs Bonding Pair Electrons: youtu.be/Ge1gKBmDIrw
Once we’ve figured out the AXE notation for a molecule, we can then reference a table of molecular geometries, such as the one available on Wikipedia, to determine its shape. I'll include a link here for quick access:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VSEPR_theory#AXE_method
In this video, we'll learn how to use AXE notation to figure out the molecular geometry of different molecules. The AXE notation focuses on the central atom (A), the number of atoms bonded to it (X), and the number of lone pairs of electrons (E) on the central atom. Understanding these parts is key to determining the shape of any molecule. We'll work through four examples to show you exactly how this method is applied.
Also, in this video, I’ll briefly mention another method called the steric number method, which can also help you figure out molecular geometry.
You can find more information on that method here: youtu.be/Moj85zwdULg
For the AXE notation, the first step is to correctly draw the Lewis structure of the molecule. From the Lewis structure, we can easily identify the number of atoms attached to the central atom and the lone pairs. It's crucial to understand the difference between lone pairs and bonding pairs of electrons, as this affects the overall molecular shape.
Lone Pair vs Bonding Pair Electrons: youtu.be/Ge1gKBmDIrw
Once we’ve figured out the AXE notation for a molecule, we can then reference a table of molecular geometries, such as the one available on Wikipedia, to determine its shape. I'll include a link here for quick access:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VSEPR_theory#AXE_method
