Question

Compare x and y bond angles for the above given molecules.

• A. $x>y$
• B. $y>x$
• C. $x=y$
• D. None of these

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

$x>y$

$F-I=O$ bond angle is smaller than the $O=I=O$ bond angle.
$F-I=O$ bond angle is ${98}^0$ whereas $O=I=O$ bond angle is ${100}^0$.
Since $F$ is more electronegative, the bond pair of electrons is more towards $F$ than towards $O$. hence, the bond pair of electrons of $I-F$ bond experiences less repulsion than the bond pair of electrons of $I-O$ bond.