The molecular shape of ClF3 is ?
The molecular shape of ClF3 is T-shaped.
To determine the molecular shape of ClF3, we can use the valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory.
1. The Lewis structure of ClF3 is as follows:
Cl: [ lone pair ] F: [ lone pair ] F: [ lone pair ] F
2. Count the total number of valence electrons:
Chlorine (Cl) has 7 valence electrons.
Each fluorine (F) atom has 7 valence electrons.
Total = 7 (Cl) + 3(7) (F) = 7 + 21 = 28 valence electrons.
3. Distribute the valence electrons around the central atom (Cl) and the outer atoms (F). Place the remaining electrons as lone pairs on the outer atoms:
Cl: [ 3 lone pairs ] F: [ lone pair ] F: [ lone pair ] F
4. Determine the electron pair geometry by arranging the atoms and lone pairs around the central atom:
Cl
|
F - Cl - F
5. Determine the molecular geometry by considering only the bonded atoms. The lone pairs are not included:
Cl
|
F - Cl - F
The molecule takes on a T-shaped geometry.
Therefore, the molecular shape of ClF3 is T-shaped.