What are the electron arrangements around the central atom and the shape,respectively,of SF₄? A)Trigonal bipyramidal and seesaw B)Both tetrahedral C)Octahedral and square pyramidal D)Both square pyramidal E)Seesaw

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The central atom in SF₄ is sulfur (S). To determine the electron arrangement around S, we need to count the total number of valence electrons: 6 (from sulfur) + 6 (from the two fluorine atoms) + 2 (from the two lone pairs) + 1 (from the boron atom) + 1 (from the other lone pair) = 16 valence electrons Using VSEPR theory, we can determine the electron arrangement by arranging the atoms and lone pairs around the central atom in a way that minimizes repulsion. With 16 valence electrons, the electron arrangement around S would be trigonal bipyramidal (3 equatorial positions, 2 axial positions). However, since there are two lone pairs on S, the shape would be seesaw. Therefore, the answer is A: Trigonal bipyramidal and seesaw.

What Are the Electron Arrangements Around the Central Atom and the Shape,respectively,of