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QuestionChemistry

The central atom in ________ violates the octet rule. A. Br₂CO B. FCN C. SF₂ D. PF₅ E. Cl₂
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Answer

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Step 1:
Let's solve this step by step:

Step 2:
: Understand the Octet Rule

The octet rule states that atoms tend to combine in such a way that they each have eight electrons in their valence shell. Atoms that have more or fewer than eight electrons in their valence shell are considered to violate the octet rule.

Step 3:
: Analyze the Electron Configuration of Central Atoms

Let's examine the central atoms in each molecule: - A. Br₂CO: Carbon (C) is the central atom - B. FCN: Carbon (C) is the central atom - C. SF₂: Sulfur (S) is the central atom - D. PF₅: Phosphorus (P) is the central atom - E. Cl₂CO: Carbon (C) is the central atom

Step 4:
: Determine Valence Electrons

- Carbon typically follows the octet rule - Sulfur can expand its octet beyond 8 electrons - Phosphorus can also expand its octet beyond 8 electrons

Step 5:
: Count Electrons in SF₂

- Total electrons around sulfur: $$6 + (2 \times 2) = 10$$ electrons
In SF₂: - Sulfur has 6 valence electrons - Each fluorine contributes 1 bond - This exceeds the octet (8 electrons)

Step 6:
: Identify the Molecule Violating the Octet Rule

SF₂ has a central sulfur atom with 10 electrons, which violates the standard octet rule.

Final Answer

PF₅ is the molecule where the central atom (phosphorus) violates the octet rule by having more than 8 electrons in its valence shell.