Question

Identify the set of molecules in which the central atom has only one lone pair of electrons in their valence shells:

• A. BrF\(_5\), SF\(_4\), SnCl\(_2\)
• B. BrF\(_5\), XeF\(_4\), SnCl\(_2\)
• C. XeF\(_4\), NH\(_3\), ClF\(_3\)
• D. XeF\(_6\), ClF\(_3\), SF\(_4\)

Hint:

Lone pairs affect the molecular shape by repelling bonding pairs, influencing molecular geometry.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Identify Lone Pairs in Given Molecules BrF\(_5\): Br has 7 valence electrons, and after forming 5 bonds with F, it has one lone pair. SF\(_4\): S has 6 valence electrons, forming 4 bonds with F and having one lone pair. SnCl\(_2\): Sn has 4 valence electrons, forming 2 bonds with Cl and having one lone pair.
Step 2: Verify Other Options XeF\(_4\): Xe has two lone pairs. NH\(_3\): N has one lone pair but is not included in the correct set. ClF\(_3\): Cl has two lone pairs. XeF\(_6\): Xe has no lone pairs. Thus, the correct set is BrF\(_5\), SF\(_4\), SnCl\(_2\).