Question

The angle between the hydrogen atoms in water (H2O) is slightly less than expected for a tetrahedral shape. This is because of the extra

electron repulsion from the lone pairs.
atomic radius of the oxygen atom.
additional repulsion of the shared electrons.
extra repulsion of the hydrogen atoms.

Answer 1

A.

extra electron repulsion from the lone pairs.

Answer 2

The angle is less than that of a tetrahedral shape because of the lone pairs from oxygen. Using VESPR theory would show that the lone pairs from oxygen would interfere with the electron shells of the two hydrogen molecules.