Select the correct molecular structure for the given species from the choices below: -ClF₂⁺ A)linear B)trigonal planar C)tetrahedral D)bent E)none of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The species given has 1 central atom (S) and 2 terminal atoms (Cl and F). Sulfur (S) has 6 valence electrons, Chlorine (Cl) has 7 valence electrons, and Fluorine (F) has 7 valence electrons. The total valence electrons for the species can be calculated as follows:

(1 x S) + (1 x Cl) + (1 x F) + (2 x 6 for the lone pair on S) + (1 x 1 for the positive charge) = 26

Based on the valence electrons, the most stable structure for the given species can be determined by drawing Lewis structures or using molecular geometry rules. In this case, based on the VSEPR theory, the structure will be bent with bond angles less than 120 degrees, since there are 2 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair on the central atom. Therefore, the correct choice is D) bent.

Select the Correct Molecular Structure for the Given Species from the Choices