In a molecule with triangular bipyramidal electron-pair geometry, where are any lone pairs on the central atom preferentially placed?
A) axially
B) equatorially
C) there is no preferential placement of lone pairs
D) there can be no lone pairs on the central atom to obtain a bipyramidal electron-pair geometry
E) the placement depends on the atoms involved

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lone pairs in a molecule with a triangular bipyramidal electron-pair geometry are preferentially placed in the equatorial positions because these positions allow for more space around the lone pairs, minimizing electron pair repulsion according to VSEPR theory.

In a Molecule with Triangular Bipyramidal Electron-Pair Geometry, Where Are