Molecular Shape

A covalent molecule may have any of the following shapes. (The central atom in a molecule is typically the most electronegative.)

Linear

The central atom has two atoms bonded to it and no lone pairs.

Trigonal planar

The central atom has three atoms bonded to it and no lone pairs.

Trigonal pyramidal

The central atom has three atoms bonded to it and a lone pair.

Tetrahedral

The central atom has four atoms bonded to it.

Bent

The central atom has two atoms bonded to it and at least one lone pair.