Solveeit Logo

Question

Question: According to the VSEPR theory, which shape is possible for a molecule with the molecular formula of ...

According to the VSEPR theory, which shape is possible for a molecule with the molecular formula of AB3A{B_3} (Where the number of total electron groups is unstated)?

Explanation

Solution

Depending upon the number of atoms that are involved in bonding between a central metal atom and other atoms the hybridization will be based. The molecule with the molecular formula of AB3A{B_3} has trigonal planar, trigonal pyramidal, and T-shape.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
VSEPR theory stands for Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory which determines the hybridization based on the valence electrons of the central metal atom and bonding between central metal atom and other atoms.
The molecular formula of AB3A{B_3} will have the molecular formulas of BF3,NH3,ClF3B{F_3},N{H_3},Cl{F_3}
In BF3B{F_3} , Boron is the central metal atom and is involved in sp2s{p^2} hybridization. The shape of BF3B{F_3} is trigonal planar.
In NH3N{H_3} , Nitrogen is the central metal atom and is involved in sp3s{p^3} hybridization. The shape of NH3N{H_3} is tetrahedral and nitrogen consisting of one lone pair of electrons.
In ClF3Cl{F_3} , Chlorine is the central metal atom and is involved in sp3ds{p^3}d hybridization. The shape of ClF3Cl{F_3} is T-shape and chlorine consisting of two lone pairs of electrons.
Thus, according to the VSEPR theory trigonal planar, tetrahedral, and T-shape were possible for a molecule with the molecular formula of AB3A{B_3} .

Note:
The number of valence electrons of the central metal atom and the electrons that were involved in bonding and lone pair of electrons decide the hybridization. AB3A{B_3} molecule has the central metal atom of A, and there are three atoms of B. Though the number of atoms is the same, the lone pair of electrons decides the hybridization and shape of the molecule.