Question

Which of the following shapes of $SF_{4}$is more stable and why?

• A. (i), due to 3 lp-bp repulsions at $90^{0}$.
• B. (ii) due to 2 lp-bp repulsions.
• C. Both are equally stable due to 2 lp-bp repulsions.
• D. Both are unstable since $SF_{4}$has tetrahedral shape.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

(ii) due to 2 lp-bp repulsions.

Answer 2

: In structure (ii), lp – bp repulsions are minimums.