One or more options correct
Which of the following statement(s) about the shapes of molecules and ions is/are correct?
- A. and both have two lone pairs on the central atom and both are square planar
- B. In the angle between the axial fluorine atoms and the equatorial one is exactly
- C. and are both linear, with three lone pairs on the central atom
- D. and are both trigonal pyramidal with one lone pair on the central atom
Show answer and solution
Answer: A, C, D
Use VSEPR with the count of valence electrons on the central atom. (A) is correct: has valence electrons on iodine, four used in bonds, leaving two lone pairs, and the six electron pairs are octahedral with the lone pairs trans, giving a square planar ion; is the same. (B) is incorrect: is T-shaped with two lone pairs in the equatorial positions, and these push the axial fluorines slightly toward the equatorial fluorine, so the angle is about , not exactly . (C) is correct: in both and the central atom has five electron pairs, three lone pairs occupy the equatorial plane of the trigonal bipyramid, and the atoms are collinear. (D) is correct: xenon in and chlorine in each carry three bonded oxygens and one lone pair, so both are pyramidal.
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