VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory is used to predict the geometry of individual molecules from the number of electron pairs surrounding their central atoms.

According to VSEPR theory, the shape of a molecule is determined by the total number of electron pairs (both bonding and non-bonding or lone pairs) around the central atom. These electron pairs repel each other and arrange themselves in space to minimize this repulsion, thereby defining the molecular geometry.

• A) The shape of a molecule depends upon the number of valence shell electron pairs (bonded or nonbonded) around the central atom. This statement accurately reflects the core principle of VSEPR theory. The arrangement of these electron pairs dictates the electron geometry, and the arrangement of only the bonded pairs dictates the molecular geometry.
• B) Pairs of electrons in the valence shell do not repel one another. This is incorrect. The fundamental premise of VSEPR theory is that electron pairs repel each other due to their negative charge.
• C) Pairs of electrons tend to occupy such positions in space that maximise repulsion. This is incorrect. Electron pairs arrange themselves to minimize repulsion, leading to the most stable molecular geometry.
• D) The shape of a molecule is independent of the number of valence shell electron pair around the central atom. This is incorrect. The number and type (bonded vs. lone pair) of valence shell electron pairs around the central atom are the primary factors determining the molecular shape according to VSEPR theory.

Correct Answer: (A)