Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of ClF_3?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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What is the molecular geometry of CF_4?
A
Bent
B
Trigonal planar
C
Tetrahedral
D
Trigonal pyramidal
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule CF_4, which is carbon (C).
Determine the number of valence electrons around the central atom. Carbon has 4 valence electrons, and each fluorine atom contributes 1 electron for bonding, totaling 8 electrons involved in bonding.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to predict the shape. Since there are 4 bonding pairs and no lone pairs on the central carbon atom, the electron pairs will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion.
According to VSEPR theory, 4 bonding pairs around a central atom with no lone pairs adopt a tetrahedral geometry to maximize the distance between electron pairs.
Conclude that the molecular geometry of CF_4 is tetrahedral, with bond angles close to 109.5 degrees.
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