Identify the correct statement about ClF3 from the following options :
- It has T-shaped geometry with three lone pairs on Cl atom.
- It has T-shaped geometry with two lone pairs on Cl atom.
- It has a trigonal pyramidal geometry with two lone pairs on Cl atom.
- It has a planar trigonal geometry with two lone pairs on Cl atom.
Answer
(2) It has T-shaped geometry with two lone pairs on Cl atom.
Solution
Cl has 7 valence electrons; 3 are used in bonds with three F atoms.
⇒ bond pairs = 3, lone pairs = 7-32 = 2 ⇒ total 5 electron pairs ⇒ sp3d, trigonal bipyramidal arrangement
As per NCERT (VSEPR theory), the two lone pairs occupy equatorial positions to minimise lp–bp repulsions
∴ ClF3 is T-shaped with two lone pairs on Cl.
Answer: (2)