Phosphoryl iodide is used in the preparation of organophosphorus derivatives and phosphate esters. Select the Lewis structure for POI₃ that minimizes formal charges.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the Lewis structure for POI₃, the optimal arrangement of electrons gives four bonds for phosphorus and one lone pair. This results in a formal charge of 0 for each atom in the molecule. Option C represents this arrangement, with a double bond between the two oxygen atoms and a single bond between iodine and phosphorus. Options A, B, D, and E, on the other hand, have formal charges on certain atoms in the molecule, indicating a less optimal distribution of electrons.

Phosphoryl Iodide Is Used in the Preparation of Organophosphorus Derivatives