Question

Determine the correct molecular shape of the molecule $XeO{F}_4$:

• A. Tetrahedral
• B. Trigonal pyramidal
• C. Trigonal bipyramidal
• D. Square pyramidal
• E. Flat

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Square pyramidal

$XeO{F}_4$
Central atom: Xe
Xe contributes: 8 e−
O contibutes: 2 e−
$4\times F$ contribute: 4 e−
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Total VSE: 14
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Total VSEP: 7
$1\times$double bond − 1 pair
Revised Total: 6
Geometry: Square pyramidal (based on octahedral)