QuestionMay 24, 2025

Based on the VSEPR theory, what is the molecular geometry of a molecule of PI_(3) linear trigonal planar trigonal pyramidal tetrahedral

Based on the VSEPR theory, what is the molecular geometry of a molecule of PI_(3) linear trigonal planar trigonal pyramidal tetrahedral
Based on the VSEPR theory, what is the molecular geometry of a molecule of PI_(3)
linear
trigonal planar
trigonal pyramidal
tetrahedral

Solution
4.4(364 votes)

Answer

trigonal pyramidal Explanation 1. Determine the central atom Phosphorus (P) is the central atom in PI_3. 2. Count valence electrons P has 5 valence electrons, and each Iodine (I) has 7. Total = 5 + 3 \times 7 = 26 electrons. 3. Form bonds and lone pairs Three single bonds with Iodine use 6 electrons. Remaining 20 electrons form lone pairs. 4. Apply VSEPR theory P has 3 bonded pairs and 1 lone pair. This corresponds to a **trigonal pyramidal** shape.

Explanation

1. Determine the central atom<br /> Phosphorus (P) is the central atom in $PI_3$.<br />2. Count valence electrons<br /> P has 5 valence electrons, and each Iodine (I) has 7. Total = $5 + 3 \times 7 = 26$ electrons.<br />3. Form bonds and lone pairs<br /> Three single bonds with Iodine use 6 electrons. Remaining 20 electrons form lone pairs.<br />4. Apply VSEPR theory<br /> P has 3 bonded pairs and 1 lone pair. This corresponds to a **trigonal pyramidal** shape.
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