Write the correct Lewis structure for XeF₄. This molecule exceeds the octet rule. Determine the number of bonding electron pairs and lone electron pairs that are present on the central atom. A) 4 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair B) 5 bonding pairs and 0 lone pairs C) 4 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs D) 5 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs E) 6 bonding pairs and 0 lone pairs

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Xe is the central atom and it has 4 bonding pairs with F and 2 lone pairs. Each B atom has one bonding pair with Xe and one lone pair. The S atom has one bonding pair with Xe and one lone pair. So, the total number of bonding pairs is 4 + 1 + 1 = 6 and the total number of lone pairs is 2 + 2 + 1 = 5. However, since the molecule exceeds the octet rule, we have to prioritize minimizing formal charges over the octet rule. This Lewis structure has the lowest formal charges on each atom, so it is the best choice.

Write the Correct Lewis Structure for XeF4

Write the Correct Lewis Structure for XeF₄