Question

Which of the following molecules has 3 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs of electrons?

• A. NH\(_3\)
• B. SO\(_2\)
• C. ClF\(_3\)
• D. SF\(_4\)
• E. H\(_2\)O

Hint:

To find bond pairs and lone pairs, draw the Lewis structure and apply the VSEPR theory for electron pair geometry.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine the number of bond pairs and lone pairs in a molecule, we need to look at its Lewis structure and VSEPR theory:
- NH\(_3\)(Ammonia) has 3 bond pairs and 1 lone pair on nitrogen.
- SO\(_2\)(Sulfur dioxide) has 2 bond pairs and 1 lone pair on sulfur.
- ClF\(_3\) (Chlorine trifluoride) has 3 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs on chlorine.
- SF\(_4\)(Sulfur tetrafluoride) has 4 bond pairs and 1 lone pair on sulfur.
- H\(_2\)O (Water) has 2 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs on oxygen.
Thus, the molecule with 3 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs is ClF\(_3\) (C).