Where's the best place to launch into a deep discussion of VSEPR theory?

Question

Sidewalk? In the line at McDonald's? Where?

(VSEPR=valence shell electron pair repulsion theory).

Does that change if I want to follow it up with a discussion of the theoretical mechanism of hydrogenation?

None of my friends ever want to discuss this...I need to find someone who will!

Uh...I have an undergraduate degree in chemistry, and I nearly had one in biology (biology would be a "minor" for me); so, don't worry, I understand it...

I just want to find other random people who have an interst in it...

Answer 1

Neither place you mentioned seem very good venues due to the probable lack of qualified participants in the conversation. I suggest any chemistry classroom from high school to college. You could also contact a chemist at a university and discuss your ideas and opinions. Many professors are very willing to share their knowledge...even to non-students.

Answer 2

Find a local chapter of the American Chemical Society. Someone there might be willing to discuss it with you. However, I wouldn't even begin a discussion of VSEPR unless you have a good understanding of Molecular Orbital (MO) theory as well. I can guarantee it will come up.

Answer 3

In the dining hall of many universities, especially Ivy League ones. You invite your favorite professor to dinner, and before you know it, you have discussion going. I've participated in many, ranging from anthropology to architecture to high energy physics to how to make better bread or solving the energy crisis. Nothing beats Ivy League dining halls -- just stay away from the food.

Answer 4

A chemistry chat room would be the easiest place, if you can find one.

Answer 5

A looooooong boring lineup at Wal-mart....