Chapter 10, Problem 10.66P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The molecular shape for ${\text{XeF}}_2$, ${\text{XeF}}_4$, and ${\text{XeF}}_6$ molecule is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The following steps are used to determine the molecular shape of the given molecule.

Step 1: Write the Lewis structure of the given formula and place the atoms.

Step 2: Count all electron groups including bonding and non-bonding pairs around the central atom and use it to assign one of the five electron-group arrangement.

Step 3: Write the ideal bond angle related to the electron-group arrangement and the effect of any deviation can be predicted by using VSEPR.

Step 4: Count the bonding and non-bonding electron groups and draw the molecular shape accordingly.