Moderate

On the basis of VSEPR theory, a molecule with three bond pairs and no lone pair of electrons will have a structure:

Correct answer: B. Trigonal planar

  • A. Linear
  • B. Trigonal planar
  • C. Tetrahedral
  • D. Trigonal pyramidal

Explanation

According to the VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory, a molecule with three bond pairs and no lone pair of electrons will have a trigonal planar molecular structure. In a trigonal planar arrangement, the bond angles between the three bond pairs are approximately 120 degrees. The electrons in the bond pairs arrange themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion between them, leading to a planar geometry. An example of a molecule with this structure is boron trifluoride (BF3). In BF3, boron forms three sigma (σ) bonds with three fluorine atoms, resulting in a trigonal planar molecular geometry.

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About Chemical Bonding

Chemical bonding explains molecular shape through VSEPR theory and distinguishes sigma bonds from pi bonds. Questions involve hybridization, bond angles, dipole moment and bond energy, including how electron-pair repulsion determines geometry and how bond polarity differs from the overall polarity of a molecule.

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