Although geometries of $\mathrm{NH}_3$ and $\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}$ molecules are distorted tetrahedral, bond angle in water is less than that of ammonia. Discuss.

Question

Although geometries of $\mathrm{NH}_3$ and $\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}$ molecules are distorted tetrahedral, bond angle in water is less than that of ammonia. Discuss.,

MARKS App · Accepted Answer

In $\mathrm{NH}_3$, there is only one lone pair on $\mathrm{N}$-atom to repel the bond pairs whereas in $\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}$, there are two lone pairs on $\mathrm{O}$-atom to repel the bond pairs. Hence, the repulsions on bond pairs are greater in $\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O}$ than in $\mathrm{NH}_3$ and hence the bond angle is less.

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