An atom in a molecule has a trigonal planar molecular shape and a formula of MX₃. What is the angle between the atoms in this molecule? A) 360º B) 180º C) 120º D) 109.5º E) 90º

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the atom has a trigonal planar shape, it has three identical atoms bonded to it and no lone pairs on the central atom. The formula indicates that there are two sulfur atoms (₃) bonded to the central atom (M) and one unit/double bond (U) between the central atom and one of the boron atoms (B13). In a trigonal planar shape, the bond angles between the atoms are all 120 degrees. Therefore, the correct answer is choice C.

An Atom in a Molecule Has a Trigonal Planar Molecular