Question

The number of electron pairs (ep) in $Cl{F}_3$ is

• A. 4
• B. 5
• C. 6
• D. 7

Answer 1

The correct option is B

5

The formula for electron pairs is

ep = $\frac{(V+L+A-C)}{2}$ [V = number of valance electrons of central atom]

[L = number of Ligands]

[A = Anionic charge]

[C = Cationic charge]

In $Cl{F}_3$,

Central atom is Cl

Valance electrons in chlorine is 7

Number of Ligands = 3

Therefore,

ep = $\frac{(7+3+0-0)}{2}$

ep = $\frac{10}{2}$

ep = 5

$\therefore$ The number of electron pairs in $Cl{F}_3$ is 5