QQuestionAnatomy and Physiology
QuestionAnatomy and Physiology
"Consider the Lewis dot structure for boron trifluoride (BF3).
What is the molecular shape of BF^3?
A. bent
B. tetrahedral
C. trigonal planar
D. trigonal pyramidal
:F:B:F:
|
F"
6 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1: Determine the electron geometry using the steric number.
The steric number is the total number of electron groups around an atom, which can be calculated by counting the number of atoms directly bonded to the central atom plus any lone pairs. In this case, boron (B) is bonded to three fluorine (F) atoms, and there are no lone pairs. Therefore, the steric number is 3.
Step 2: Determine the molecular shape based on the electron geometry and the number of lone pairs.
For a steric number of 3 and no lone pairs, the electron geometry is trigonal planar. Since there are no lone pairs, the molecular shape is the same as the electron geometry, which is trigonal planar.
Final Answer
The molecular shape of BF^3 is trigonal planar, so the correct answer is option C.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students