QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
"Which of the following statements is true for the Lewis structure of ClF^3 in which the formal charges are minimized?
W: Central atom has an expanded octet
X: The octet rule is obeyed
Y: The central atom has incomplete octet
Z: The central atom has 2 lone pairs"
10 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1:: Identify the structure of ClF^3 with minimized formal charges.
The Lewis structure of ClF^3 with minimized formal charges has the central Chlorine atom forming three bonds with Fluorine atoms and having one lone pair of electrons.
Step 2:: Analyze the octet rule for the central atom.
The octet rule states that atoms tend to have eight electrons in their valence shell to achieve a stable electronic configuration. In this case, the central Chlorine atom has seven electrons from three bonds and one lone pair, satisfying the octet rule (X is true).
Step 3:: Check for an expanded octet.
An expanded octet occurs when an atom has more than eight electrons in its valence shell. In this structure, Chlorine has seven electrons in its valence shell, so it does not have an expanded octet (W is false).
Step 4:: Analyze the central atom's octet completion.
Since the central Chlorine atom has eight electrons in its valence shell, including the lone pair, it has a complete octet (Y is false).
Step 5:: Identify the number of lone pairs on the central atom.
In the given Lewis structure, the central Chlorine atom has one lone pair (Z is true).
Final Answer
- W: Central atom has an expanded octet (False) - X: The octet rule is obeyed (True) - Y: The central atom has an incomplete octet (False) - Z: The central atom has 2 lone pairs (False)
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students