How many electron domains are surrounding the central atoms which adopt the following geometries? (d) trigonal bipyramidal.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the geometry mentioned in the problem, which is trigonal bipyramidal.
2. Understand that electron domains include lone pairs and bonds (single, double, or triple) around the central atom.
3. Recognize that in a trigonal bipyramidal geometry, there are no lone pairs on the central atom, and all electron domains are bonding pairs.
4. Count the positions in the trigonal bipyramidal structure: there are three equatorial positions and two axial positions.
5. Conclude that there are five electron domains (all bonding pairs) around the central atom in a trigonal bipyramidal geometry.

Key Concepts

Electron Domains

Electron domains refer to regions around a central atom where electrons are likely to be found. These can include lone pairs, single bonds, double bonds, or triple bonds. The number of electron domains helps determine the molecular geometry of a compound, as each domain occupies space and influences the arrangement of other domains.

Trigonal Bipyramidal Geometry

Trigonal bipyramidal geometry occurs when a central atom is surrounded by five electron domains. In this arrangement, three domains are positioned in a plane around the central atom, forming a triangle, while the other two are located above and below this plane. This geometry is characteristic of molecules with five bonding pairs and no lone pairs, such as phosphorus pentachloride (PCl5).

VSEPR Theory

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory is a model used to predict the geometry of molecules based on the repulsion between electron pairs. According to VSEPR, electron domains will arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion, leading to specific molecular shapes. Understanding VSEPR is essential for determining the geometry associated with different numbers of electron domains.