Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of the BF_2^- ion?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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How many electron groups are present around the central atom in a molecule with a trigonal bipyramidal molecular geometry?
A
3
B
4
C
5
D
6
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the molecular geometry describes the arrangement of atoms around the central atom, while the electron group geometry considers both bonding and lone pairs of electrons around the central atom.
Trigonal bipyramidal molecular geometry corresponds to a central atom surrounded by five regions of electron density (electron groups), which can be bonding pairs or lone pairs.
Each electron group can be a single bond, double bond, triple bond, or lone pair, but for geometry purposes, each counts as one electron group.
Since the molecule has trigonal bipyramidal geometry, it must have 5 electron groups arranged to minimize repulsion according to VSEPR theory.
Therefore, the number of electron groups around the central atom in a trigonal bipyramidal molecule is 5.
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