Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of IF_5?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following best describes the molecular geometry of BF_3?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Trigonal pyramidal
C
Bent
D
Tetrahedral
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, making a total of 3 bonding pairs.
Recognize that BF_3 has three bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the central atom, which influences the molecular geometry.
Apply the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory, which states that electron pairs around a central atom arrange themselves to minimize repulsion, leading to specific molecular shapes.
Conclude that with three bonding pairs and no lone pairs, the molecular geometry of BF_3 is trigonal planar, where the atoms are arranged in a flat triangle around the central atom.
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