Which of these is the correct molecular geometry of PCl₃?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The molecular formula PCl₃ seems to be a typographical error, but assuming it's meant to represent PCl5 (Phosphorus Pentachloride), the correct molecular geometry for PCl5 is Trigonal Bipyramidal, which is not listed among the options. However, if we consider a molecule with a central phosphorus atom bonded to a chlorine atom and possibly other atoms or groups (implied by the erroneous part of the formula), and assuming the question intends to ask about a molecule with phosphorus, chlorine, and possibly sulfur (given the "S" in the formula), the closest reasonable geometry among the given options for a molecule with a central atom bonded to three other atoms (assuming a typo in the formula) would be Trigonal Pyramidal, especially if we consider a lone pair on the phosphorus. This is a common geometry for molecules with four areas of electron density (three bonds and one lone pair) around the central atom, such as in NH3.

Which of These Is the Correct Molecular Geometry of PCl3

Which of These Is the Correct Molecular Geometry of PCl₃