Question

In the structure of ${\mathrm{ClF}}_3$, the number of lone pair of electrons on the central atom ‘$\mathrm{Cl}$’ is:

• A. Four
• B. Two
• C. One
• D. Three

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Two

Explanation for correct option:

Correct Option: (B)

• ${\mathrm{ClF}}_3$ is an interhalogen compound where a halogen $\mathrm{Cl}$ is bonded to 3 $\mathrm{F}$ atoms.
• $\mathrm{Cl}$ has 7 electrons in its outermost subshell, of which it has used 3 electrons to bond with 3 $\mathrm{F}$ atoms.
• It still has 4 electrons left.
• These 4 electrons exist as 2 lone pairs.

Incorrect options: (A)

• It can be observed in the above-mentioned figure that the number of lone pairs on the central element is 2.
• Therefore, option (A) is incorrect.

Incorrect options: (C)

• It can be observed in the above-mentioned figure that the number of lone pairs on the central element is 2.
• Therefore, option (C) is incorrect.

Incorrect options: (D)

• It can be observed in the above-mentioned figure that the number of lone pairs on the central element is 2.
• Therefore, option (D) is incorrect.

Final Answer:

• Therefore, the correct answer is option (B) i.e., 2 lone pairs.