Multiple Choice
What does the VSEPR theory help chemists predict about molecules?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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What is the molecular geometry of BF_3?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Trigonal pyramidal
C
Trigonal planar
D
Bent
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule BF_3, which is boron (B).
Determine the number of valence electrons around the central atom. Boron has 3 valence electrons, and each fluorine atom contributes 1 electron for bonding, totaling 3 bonds.
Use the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory to predict the shape. Since there are three bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the boron atom, the electron pairs will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion.
According to VSEPR theory, three bonding pairs with no lone pairs around the central atom arrange in a plane at 120° angles, resulting in a trigonal planar geometry.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of BF_3 is trigonal planar, not tetrahedral, trigonal pyramidal, or bent.
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