What is the formal charge on B in BF₄^-? A)+1 B)-1 C)+2 D)0 E)-2

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To calculate the formal charge on an atom in a molecule, we use the following formula: Formal charge = valence electrons - (non-bonded electrons + half of bonded electrons).

For B in the given molecule, the valence electrons are 3 (group 3 element). B is bonded to two F atoms, one S atom, and one P atom. Each F atom contributes 1 electron, the S atom contributes 2 electrons, and the P atom contributes 5 electrons to the bonding. Therefore, the total number of bonded electrons around B is (2 x 1) + 2 + 5 = 9.

B also has one lone pair of electrons, which contributes 2 non-bonded electrons.

Using the formula, the formal charge on B is 3 - (2 + 9/2) = -1. Therefore, the best answer choice is (B) -1.

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What Is the Formal Charge on B in BF₄^-