Identify Pyramidal Molecular Geometry Species
The species having pyramidal shape is
Options
A
B
C
D
Correct
Topics & Concepts
Step-by-Step Solution
To determine the molecular geometry (shape) of each given species, we use the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory and steric number calculations:
1. Analysis of (Sulfur trioxide)
- Central atom: Sulfur (), which has 6 valence electrons.
- Bonding: forms double bonds with three oxygen atoms ().
- -bonds: 3
- Lone pairs on :
- Steric Number: ( hybridized)
- Geometry and Shape: Trigonal planar
2. Analysis of (Bromine trifluoride)
- Central atom: Bromine (), which has 7 valence electrons.
- Bonding: forms single bonds with three fluorine atoms ().
- -bonds: 3
- Lone pairs on :
- Steric Number: ( hybridized)
- Geometry: Trigonal bipyramidal
- Shape: T-shaped
3. Analysis of (Silicate ion)
- Central atom: Silicon (), which has 4 valence electrons ( electrons from the 2- charge = 6 electrons available for bonding).
- Bonding: forms one double bond () and two single bonds ().
- -bonds: 3
- Lone pairs on :
- Steric Number: ( hybridized)
- Geometry and Shape: Trigonal planar
4. Analysis of (Thionyl fluoride)
- Central atom: Sulfur (), which has 6 valence electrons.
- Bonding: forms one double bond with oxygen (, using 2 electrons) and two single bonds with fluorine (, using 2 electrons).
- -bonds:
- Lone pairs on :
- Steric Number: ( hybridized)
- Electron Geometry: Tetrahedral
- Molecular Shape: Trigonal Pyramidal (or Pyramidal)
Conclusion
Among the given options, has 3 bond pairs and 1 lone pair on the central sulfur atom, resulting in a pyramidal molecular shape.
Correct Option: D