What is the molecular geometry of a molecule with 5 atoms bonded to the central atom?
The molecular geometry of a molecule with 5 atoms bonded to the central atom can vary depending on the arrangement of the bonded atoms and lone pairs. Here are the common molecular geometries for a central atom with 5 bonded atoms:
1. Trigonal Bipyramidal: The central atom has three atoms in a trigonal planar arrangement in the equatorial plane and two atoms above and below the plane. Examples include PF5 (phosphorus pentafluoride) and SF4 (sulfur tetrafluoride).
2. See-saw: The central atom has four atoms in a distorted tetrahedral arrangement. One atom is positioned above the plane, and two atoms and one lone pair are in the equatorial plane. Examples include SF4Cl2 (sulfur tetrafluoride dichloride).
3. T-shaped: The central atom has three atoms in a distorted trigonal planar arrangement, with one atom positioned above the plane and two atoms and two lone pairs in the equatorial plane. Examples include ClF3 (chlorine trifluoride).
4. Square Pyramidal: The central atom has five atoms in a square base with one atom in an axial position above the base. Examples include BrF5 (bromine pentafluoride).
5. Square Planar: The central atom has four atoms in a square planar arrangement, with two atoms in axial positions above and below the plane and two atoms in equatorial positions in the plane. Examples include XeF4 (xenon tetrafluoride).
Note: The molecular geometry mentioned above considers only the bonded atoms and lone pairs around the central atom, ignoring the non-bonding electrons.