Multiple Choice
Which of the following Lewis structures represents a molecule that would assume a linear geometry?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
Multiple Choice
What is the molecular geometry of PCl_3?
A
Trigonal planar
B
Bent
C
Trigonal pyramidal
D
Tetrahedral
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule PCl_3, which is phosphorus (P).
Determine the number of valence electrons for phosphorus (5 valence electrons) and chlorine (7 valence electrons each).
Calculate the total number of valence electrons in PCl_3 by adding phosphorus's valence electrons to those of the three chlorine atoms.
Draw the Lewis structure of PCl_3, placing phosphorus in the center bonded to three chlorine atoms, and include any lone pairs on phosphorus.
Use the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory to determine the molecular geometry: with three bonding pairs and one lone pair on phosphorus, the shape is trigonal pyramidal.
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