Question Analysis
This question involves VSEPR theory and distinguishing between electron geometry and molecular geometry.
Key Concept Explanation
Electron Geometry: The spatial arrangement of all valence electron pairs (bonding + lone pairs) around the central atom.
Molecular Geometry: The arrangement of atoms in space, determined by the number of bonding and non-bonding electron pairs around the central atom.
Step-by-step Solution
1. Structure analysis: Oxygen is the central atom.
Oxygen forms 2 single bonds with hydrogen atoms (2 bonding electron domains).
Oxygen has 2 lone pairs of valence electrons (2 non-bonding electron domains).
2. Total electron domains = 4.
3. Apply VSEPR rules: 4 el...