QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
"What is the molecular geometry of SeF^4?
Group of answer choices
trigonal bipyramidal
square pyramidal
seesaw
square planar"
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Answer
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Step 1: Determine the electron geometry of SeF^4 using the valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory.
SeF^4 has five electron pairs around the central Se atom (4 from the Selenium atom and one from each of the four Fluorine atoms). According to VSEPR theory, these electron pairs will arrange themselves in a way that minimizes repulsion. The electron geometry for SeF^4 is trigonal bipyramidal.
Step 2: Determine the molecular geometry of SeF^4 based on the electron geometry and the number of bonded atoms (or lone pairs) in the equatorial and axial positions.
In SeF^4, there are four bonded atoms (one Se atom and four F atoms) and one lone pair of electrons. The four bonded atoms occupy the equatorial positions, while the lone pair occupies one of the axial positions.
Final Answer
The molecular geometry of SeF^4 is seesaw.
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