Question

What is the shape of $ Cl{{F}_{5}} $ using VSEPR Theory?

Answer 1

Hint :We know that the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory is a simple method for predicting the shape of covalent molecules and polyatomic ions on the basis of arrangement of molecules. VSEPR theory help in describing the shape of a molecule and a molecule with only two atoms is linear, with three atoms is trigonal planar, with four atoms it is tetrahedral, with

Complete Step By Step Answer:
As we know, a Lewis structure only helps us in identifying the number and types of bonds present between the atoms because they are limited to two dimensions only. To predict their three-dimensional structures and shape we come across the VSEPR theory which is based on the concept that atoms contain electrons around which help in detection of the molecule’s geometry. As we know, a Lewis structure only helps us in identifying the number and types of bonds present between the atoms because they are limited to two dimensions only. To predict their three-dimensional structures and shape we come across the VSEPR theory which is based on the concept that atoms contain electrons around which help in detection of the molecule’s geometry. VSEPR theory is used to predict molecular shapes. It is based on the assumption that atoms have a tendency to arrange themselves in such a way that the valence shell electron repulsion is minimized and the distance between them is maximized. Arrangement of atoms in a molecule determines the molecular geometry. Repulsion is strongest between two lone pairs and weakest between two bond pairs.
Since both chlorine and fluorine belong to the halogen group (they are group $ 17 $ elements), both their valence shells contain $ 7 $ electrons. Since the difference in the electronegativity of chlorine and fluorine is not extremely high, the chemical bonds formed between chlorine and fluorine atoms are highly covalent in nature. In a $ Cl{{F}_{5}} $ molecule, chlorine is the central atom featuring five single bonds with fluorine atoms. Since chlorine has $ 7 $ electrons in the valence shell, the remaining two electrons form a lone pair. As per the VSEPR theory (valence shell electron pair repulsion theory), the shape of a $ Cl{{F}_{5}} $ molecule is square pyramidal.
Therefore, the shape of the molecule is trigonal planar using VSEPR Theory.

Note :
Remember that the total number of electron pairs present around the central atoms which should be the least electronegative atom is given as the sum of half of the valence electron of the central atom and number of atoms linked by single bonds to that central atom. The number of bond pairs should be counted as the total number of atoms linked by single bonds with the central atom.