Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules is an example of a free radical that is an exception to the octet rule in its Lewis dot structure?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Exceptions
Multiple Choice
In the Lewis dot structure of BrF_3, how many lone pairs are present on the central bromine atom?
A
1 lone pair
B
2 lone pairs
C
3 lone pairs
D
0 lone pairs
Verified step by step guidance1
Determine the total number of valence electrons for the central bromine atom. Bromine is in group 17, so it has 7 valence electrons.
Identify the number of fluorine atoms bonded to bromine. There are 3 fluorine atoms, each forming a single bond with bromine, using 3 of bromine's valence electrons.
Subtract the electrons used in bonding from bromine's total valence electrons: 7 (from Br) - 3 (used in bonds) = 4 electrons remaining.
Since lone pairs consist of 2 electrons each, divide the remaining electrons by 2 to find the number of lone pairs on bromine: 4 electrons ÷ 2 = 2 lone pairs.
Conclude that the central bromine atom in BrF_3 has 2 lone pairs of electrons.
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