Question

What is the shape of the $Cl{F}_3$ molecule?
(A) trigonal planar
(B) Trigonal pyramidal
(C) T-shaped
(D) Tetrahedral

Answer 1

Hint: To solve this question refer to the valence shell electron pair repulsion theory or VSEPR theory as it is used to predict the geometry of individual molecules from the number of electron pairs surrounding their central atoms.

Complete answer:
We have been provided with $Cl{F}_3$ molecule,
We need to tell the shape of this molecule,
So, for that:
Firstly, we will be using the VSEPR theory,
We know that VSEPR theory predict the geometry of an individual molecule from the number of electron pairs surrounding the central atoms,
So, we have the molecule of $Cl{F}_3$,
So, according to the VSEPR theory,
The electron groups in $Cl{F}_3$ are 5 around the central Cl atom,
Out of which 3 are bonding molecule and 2 are non-bonding molecule,
Also, there are 2 lone pair presents in the $Cl{F}_3$ molecule,
These lone pair are adjusted on the axial plane to maximize the bond angle and minimize the bond repulsion,
 Out of 3 fluorine atoms, two fluorine atoms are adjusted on equatorial position separated by angle of ${180}^{\circ }$,
And the third fluorine atom is adjusted on axial plane in a see-saw manner,
It would acquire a trigonal bipyramidal with 5 electron groups around the Cl but due to the presence of lone pairs its shape is T-shaped.

So, we can say that the shape of the $Cl{F}_3$ molecule is t-shaped .

So, the correct option is (C).

Note:
VSEPR theory have certain limitations too:
(1) this theory was unable to explain about the elements that have the same number of electrons.
(2) this theory does not explain the transition metal compounds.