How many lone pairs of electrons are left on the Xe atom once it hybridizes to form XeF₄? A) 0 B) 3 C) 2 D) 1

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

XeF₄ has a trigonal bipyramidal molecular geometry. The Xe atom has 5 electron domains: one from the lone pair on Xe, 4 from the bonding pairs with F and S. Therefore, Xe undergoes sp3d hybridization to form five hybrid orbitals that are used to form the Xe-F and Xe-S bonds. Since all five electron domains are involved in bonding, there are no lone pairs of electrons left on the Xe atom. Choice (C) is the correct answer.

How Many Lone Pairs of Electrons Are Left on the Xe