Question

Which of the following repulsions is highest? (if considered at same angle)

• A. 1 lp - lp, 5 lp - bp
• B. 6 lp - bp
• C. 6 bp - bp
• D. 1 lp - lp, 5 bp - bp

Answer 1

The correct option is A 1 lp - lp, 5 lp - bp

The order of strength of repulsion betwen the electron pairs follow the order
$lp-lp>lp-bp>bp-bp$

Therefore the options with lone pair - lone interactions will have the highest repulsions.

Of options a) 1 lp - lp, 5 lp - bp and d)1 lp - lp, 5 bp - bp

Since lone pair - bond pair repulsions are stronger than bond pair - bond pair repulsions a) 1 lp - lp, 5 lp - bp will have the highest repulsions.