VSEPR calculation for perchlorate, [ClO₄]^-

Perchlorate, [ClO₄]^-

Lewis structure:
Central atom:	chlorine
Valence electrons on central atom:	7
4 terminal oxygens each contribute 1 electron in the four σ bonds	4
Subtract four for the four electrons contributed by Cl to the four π bonds (one for each):	-4
Add one for the negative charge located on Cl	1
Total:	8
Divide by 4 to give electron pairs	4
4 electron pairs:	tetrahedral geometry for the four shape-determining electron pairs

The geometry of perchlorate, [ClO4]-. You can use your mouse to manipulate the molecule in the right hand "Jmol" image.