Molecular Geometry of Formaldehyde (CH₂O) - VSEPR Theory
What is the molecular geometry of Formaldehyde (CH₂O)?
Formaldehyde (CH₂O) has 3 electron domains around the central C atom: 3 bonding and 0 lone pair(s). The electron domain geometry is trigonal planar, giving a trigonal planar molecular shape with bond angles of approximately 120 degrees.
| Formula | CH₂O |
| Name | Formaldehyde |
| Central Atom | C |
| Bonding Domains | 3 |
| Lone Pair Domains | 0 |
| Total Electron Domains | 3 |
| Electron Domain Geometry | Trigonal Planar |
| Molecular Geometry | Trigonal Planar |
| Bond Angle | 120° |
Electron Domain Count
Carbon has 3 bonding domains: one C=O double bond (counts as 1 domain) and two C–H single bonds. No lone pairs = 3 total domains.
Electron Domain Geometry
3 electron domains arrange in a trigonal planar pattern (120° apart). All atoms lie in the same plane.
Molecular Geometry
All 3 domains are bonding pairs, so the molecular geometry matches: trigonal planar. The molecule is flat.
Bond Angle
The ideal bond angle is 120°. In reality, the C=O double bond occupies slightly more space, compressing the H–C–H angle slightly below 120°.
See electron domains, molecular shapes, and bond angles on interactive 3D molecules with Lewis structure overlays.
Visualize Formaldehyde's Geometry in 3DRelated Topics
Molecular Geometry of Water
VSEPR analysis of H₂O
Molecular Geometry of Methane
VSEPR analysis of CH₄
Molecular Geometry of Carbon Dioxide
VSEPR analysis of CO₂
Lewis Structure of CH₂O
Draw the Lewis dot structure of Formaldehyde
Is Formaldehyde Polar or Nonpolar?
Polarity analysis of CH₂O
Orbital Hybridization
See how atomic orbitals mix to form sp, sp2, and sp3 hybrids