[leafs67]

I have used VSEPR theory to determine the shape of N2O, and I would like to verify that I have the correct shape, however every site I go to provides me with a different answer. The structure I determined was:

n -(triple bond)- n - o

The structure is correct, however is the shape not linear? As the triple bond counts as 1 electron pair, and the single bond obviously the other. Therefore, we have 2 bonded pairs, and 0 unbonded pairs of electrons. This would suggest to me that the overall molecular and electronic geometry is linear. Can anyone else verify this for me? Thanks in advance for your *delete me*

[slwJAMS]

you are correct with the VSEPR theory.

have you done resonance structures yet?

Count your lone pairs again, there are some. it helps to write the letters of the elements then draw ALL of their lone pairs. then just connect the dots. this will show you the electron pair geometry. the molecular geometry is just how the molecules fit in their shapes without taking lone pairs into consideration.