Explore trigonal planar molecular geometry with the Indigo® VSEPR set. Visualize 120° bond angles and electron pair repulsion in AX3 structures.
The Indigo® Molecular Geometry VSEPR Set includes two models that demonstrate trigonal planar geometry. One represents a central atom surrounded by three bonded pairs (AX3), while the other shows two bonded pairs and one lone pair (AX2E). Each model illustrates the 120° bond angles typical of molecules like BF3 and SO3, showing how bonding and lone pairs distribute themselves evenly in a single plane.
| Learning Outcome | Activity | Concept Reinforced | Curricular Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify trigonal planar geometry and bond angles. | Build a central atom with three bonded pairs (AX3) using the kit. | Electron domains repel to form 120° angles in a single plane. | High school chemistry: molecular geometry basics. |
| Model the effect of a lone pair on bond angles. | Substitute one bonded pair with a lone pair to create AX2E. | Lone pairs increase repulsion, bending the molecule. | Introductory college chemistry: VSEPR theory & bond repulsion. |
| Relate shape to hybridization and molecular reactivity. | Compare sp2 hybridization in BF3 and CH3O models. | Planar geometry facilitates π-bond formation and reactivity. | Organic chemistry foundations: bonding and structure. |
| P/N | Description | QTY |
|---|---|---|
| 68186-20 | Wobbly bond, 20mm, each | 50 |
| 68216C | Atom, Orbit, H "a", white, 1 prong | 20 |
| 68221C | Atom, Orbit, Cl "a", green, 1 prong | 30 |
| 68225C | Atom, Orbit, C "b", 180 degree, black | 1 |
| 68241C | Atom, Orbit, C "j", planar: 120-120-120, black | 2 |
| 68244C | Atom, Orbit, C "k", tetrahedral, black | 3 |
| 68258C | Atom, Orbit "l", octahedral, grey | 5 |
| 68259C | Atom, Orbit, C "m", trigonal bipyramidal, black | 4 |
| 68416C | Orbital for showing lone electron pair, white, Orbit style | 10 |
| 68417C | Orbital for showing lone electron pair, black, Orbit style | 10 |
The parts listed on this page are for the entire kit, not the molecules(s) shown. You can augment this geometry with additional pieces listed on the Orbit Components page.