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QuestionChemistry

"Give the molecular geometry and number of electron groups for XeF^2. A. Seesaw, 5 electron groups B. T-shaped, 5 electron groups C. Linear, 5 electron groups D. Square planar, 6 electron groups E. Octahedral, 6 electron groups"
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Answer

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Step 1:
Let's solve this step by step using VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory:

Step 2:
: Determine the number of valence electrons for Xe

- Total valence electrons: $$8 + (2 \times 7) = 22$$ electrons
- Xenon (Xe) is in Group 18 - Xe has 8 valence electrons - Each F contributes 7 valence electrons

Step 3:
: Draw the Lewis structure

- Central Xe atom - Two F atoms bonded to Xe - Remaining electrons form lone pairs on Xe

Step 4:
: Count electron groups around the central atom

- Total: $$5$$ electron groups
- 2 bonding groups (Xe-F bonds) - 3 lone pairs on Xe

Step 5:
: Determine electron group geometry

- 5 electron groups follow trigonal bipyramidal electron geometry - Lone pairs preferentially occupy equatorial positions

Step 6:
: Determine molecular geometry

- Molecular geometry is $$\textbf{linear}
- With 2 bonding groups and 3 lone pairs

Final Answer

Linear, 5 electron groups