Question

The structure of $Xe{F}_6$ is experimentally determined to be distorted octahedron. Its structure according to VSEPR theory is:

• A. octahedron
• B. trigonal bipyramid
• C. pentagonal bipyramid
• D. tetragonal bipyramid

Answer 1

The correct option is C pentagonal bipyramid

In $Xe{F}_6$, $Xe$, the central atom contains 8 valence electrons. Out of which 6 are utilised with fluorine in bonding (i.e., it contains six bond pairs of electrons) while one pair remains as lone pair.
Thus, the total pairs $=6+1=7$
Hence, its shape is pentagonal bipyramid according to VSEPR theory.