The structure of Xenon trioxide (\( \text{XeO}_3 \)) is shown below.
With reference to the Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory (VSEPR), the shape of \( \text{XeO}_3 \) is:
A
Tetrahedral
B
Trigonal pyramidal
C
Bent (or angular)
D
Trigonal planar
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Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy
Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Trigonal pyramidal
Concept:
The molecular shape is dictated by the arrangement of bond pairs and lone pairs around the central atom according to VSEPR theory.
Formula:
$$ \text{Type} = \text{AB}_3\text{E} $$
Solution:
Xenon (Xe) in \( \text{XeO}_3 \) forms three double bonds with oxygen atoms (3 bonding domains).
Xe is a noble gas with 8 valence electrons. Sharing 6 electrons with Oxygen leaves 2 electrons, which form 1 lone pair.
A molecule with 3 bond pairs and 1 lone pair (\( \text{AB}_3\text{E} \)) adopts a trigonal pyramidal geometry.
Why other options are incorrect:
Option A: Would require 4 bond pairs and 0 lone pairs.
Option C: Would require 2 bond pairs.
Option D: Would require 3 bond pairs and 0 lone pairs.
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