Question

Which of the following statements is true regarding $P{F}_{2}C{l}_3$?

• A. $F$ occupies the axial position in the trigonal bipyramidal geometry
• B. $Cl$ occupies the axial position in the trigonal bipyramidal geometry
• C. There is no preference for axial and equatorial positions
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A $F$ occupies the axial position in the trigonal bipyramidal geometry

According to Bent’s rule, the most electronegative elements prefer to occupy the orbitals that has lesser s character. In the trigonal bipyramidal geometry, the axial bonds are $pd$ hybridized and the equatorial bonds are $s{p}^2$ hybridized. Therefore, fluorine occupies the axial position in trigonal bipyrammidal geometry.