QuestionAugust 9, 2025

What is the electron pair geometry for a phosphine molecule, PH_(3) tetrahedral linear trigonal pyramidal bent none of the above

What is the electron pair geometry for a phosphine molecule, PH_(3) tetrahedral linear trigonal pyramidal bent none of the above
What is the electron pair geometry for a phosphine molecule, PH_(3)
tetrahedral
linear
trigonal pyramidal
bent
none of the above

Solution
4.3(252 votes)

Answer

trigonal pyramidal Explanation 1. Determine the number of electron pairs Phosphine (PH_3) has 5 valence electrons from phosphorus and 1 from each hydrogen, totaling 8. Three are used in bonding, leaving one lone pair. 2. Identify the geometry based on VSEPR theory With three bonding pairs and one lone pair, the shape is **trigonal pyramidal** according to VSEPR theory.

Explanation

1. Determine the number of electron pairs<br /> Phosphine ($PH_3$) has 5 valence electrons from phosphorus and 1 from each hydrogen, totaling 8. Three are used in bonding, leaving one lone pair.<br />2. Identify the geometry based on VSEPR theory<br /> With three bonding pairs and one lone pair, the shape is **trigonal pyramidal** according to VSEPR theory.
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