Multiple Choice
In the Lewis dot structure of PF_3, how many lone pairs of electrons are present on the phosphorus (P) atom?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Exceptions
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In the Lewis dot structure of BCl_3, how many lone pairs are present on the central boron atom?
A
1
B
0
C
2
D
3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule BCl_3, which is boron (B).
Determine the number of valence electrons for the central atom. Boron has 3 valence electrons.
Recognize that each chlorine (Cl) atom forms a single bond with boron, using one of boron's valence electrons per bond.
Since boron forms three single bonds with three chlorine atoms, all three of its valence electrons are involved in bonding.
Conclude that there are no remaining valence electrons on boron to form lone pairs, so the number of lone pairs on the central boron atom is zero.
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