Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the molecular polarity of ClF_3?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which of the following best describes the molecular polarity of BrF_3?
A
BrF_3 is a polar molecule.
B
BrF_3 is a nonpolar molecule.
C
BrF_3 is ionic and does not have molecular polarity.
D
BrF_3 is amphiprotic.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Determine the Lewis structure of BrF_3. Bromine (Br) is the central atom bonded to three fluorine (F) atoms. Bromine has 7 valence electrons, and each fluorine has 7 valence electrons. Total valence electrons = 7 (Br) + 3 × 7 (F) = 28 electrons.
Step 2: Arrange the atoms with Br in the center and three F atoms bonded to it. Distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule, placing lone pairs on Br and F atoms. BrF_3 has two lone pairs on the bromine atom in addition to the three bonding pairs.
Step 3: Determine the molecular geometry using VSEPR theory. With 3 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs, the electron geometry is trigonal bipyramidal, but the molecular shape is T-shaped due to the lone pairs occupying equatorial positions.
Step 4: Analyze the symmetry and dipole moments. The T-shaped geometry is asymmetrical, and the electronegativity difference between Br and F creates dipole moments that do not cancel out.
Step 5: Conclude that because of the asymmetrical shape and net dipole moment, BrF_3 is a polar molecule.
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