It provides a simple method to predict the shape of covalent molecules
Developed by Gillespie and Nyholm.
This theory is primarily based upon the fact that in a polyatomic molecule the direction of bonds around central atom depends upon the total number of electron pairs in its valance shell.
The main features of this theory:
- The electron pair surrounds the central atom repel each other,consequently , they stay as far as possible in space to attain maximum stability.
- The geometry and shape of the molecule depend upon the number of electron pairs surrunding the central atom.
- The repulsive interaction between the lone pairs are different from these between two bond pairs or those between lone pairs and lone pair.