Moderate

The shape of SnCl2 is:

Correct answer: C. Angular

  • A. Linear
  • B. Tetrahedral
  • C. Angular
  • D. Trigonal Planar

Explanation

SnCl2 (Tin dichloride) has a bent or V-shaped geometry, which is an example of an angular or non-linear shape. The molecule has a central tin atom that is bonded to two chlorine atoms. The two bond pairs of electrons repel each other, resulting in a bent shape. The bond angle is approximately 119 degrees. This bent shape is due to the lone pair of electrons present on the tin atom. The lone pair occupies a greater amount of space compared to the bond pair, resulting in the distortion of the molecule. In contrast, the linear shape is a molecular geometry in which the atoms of the molecule are arranged in a straight line, like in HCl or CO2. Tetrahedral shape is a molecular geometry that has four atoms attached to a central atom, like in CH4 or CCl4. Trigonal shape is a molecular geometry that has three atoms attached to a central atom, like in BF3.

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