InterviewSolution
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InterviewSolution
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Hybridization of the central atom in `PF_3` isA. `sp`B. `dsp^2`C. `sp^2`D. `sp^3` |
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Answer» Correct Answer - D The ground-state electron configuration of central P atom is `[Ne]3s^2 3p^3`. Therefore, the P atom has five valence electrons. Three of the valence electrons are used to hold the three univalent F atoms and two nonbonding valence electrons form one lone pair. `F-underset(F)underset(|)overset(..)P-F` There are three bonded atoms and one lone pair on the central P atom. Thus, the steric number of `P` in `PF_3` is `3+1=4`. We conclude that P must be `sp^3`-hybridized. One of the `sp^3` hybrid orbitals is used to accomodate the lone pair on P while the other three `sp^3` hybrid orbitals from covalent `P-F` bonds with the `2p` orbitals of `F`. We predict the shape of the molecule to be pyramidal and the FPF bond angle should be somewhat less than `109.5^@`. |
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