Using the VSEPR model,the molecular geometry of the central atom in PCl₃ is ________. A)linear B)trigonal planar C)tetrahedral D)bent E)trigonal pyramidal

Question

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The VSEPR model predicts that the central atom, phosphorus (P), in PCl₃ will have four electron groups around it. The electron groups are the three atoms bonded to P (Cl, _{3, and}) and one lone pair on P. This electron arrangement corresponds to a tetrahedral electron geometry. However, since one of the electron groups is a lone pair, the molecular geometry will be trigonal pyramidal with the lone pair occupying an equatorial position to minimize repulsions. Therefore, the answer is (E) trigonal pyramidal.

Using the VSEPR Model,the Molecular Geometry of the Central Atom