QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
What is the molecular configuration of nitrogen trifluoride (NF3)?
A. Linear
B. Trigonal Planar
C. Tetrahedral
D. Octahedral
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this step by step using VSEPR theory to determine the molecular configuration of nitrogen trifluoride (NF3).
Step 2:: Determine the central atom
- The central atom is nitrogen (N) - Nitrogen will form bonds with three fluorine atoms
Step 3:: Count valence electrons
- Total valence electrons: $$5 + (7 \times 3) = 26$$ electrons
- Nitrogen (Group 5A): 5 valence electrons - Fluorine (Group 7A): 7 valence electrons × 3 = 21 electrons
Step 4:: Draw Lewis structure
- Three single bonds between N and F - Remaining electrons form lone pairs on nitrogen - Nitrogen has one lone pair of electrons
Step 5:: Apply VSEPR theory
- Total electron domains: 4 (3 bonding + 1 lone pair) - Electron domain geometry: Tetrahedral - Molecular geometry: Trigonal pyramidal
Step 6:: Determine molecular configuration
- The presence of a lone pair distorts the perfect tetrahedral shape - Molecular shape is trigonal pyramidal
Final Answer
Tetrahedral Explanation: While the electron domain geometry is tetrahedral, the actual molecular configuration is trigonal pyramidal due to the lone pair on nitrogen, which makes the answer C. Tetrahedral.
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