Chapter 12, Problem 60E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

An explanation as to how five or six electron pairs around a central atom are possible when there are only four valence electrons from the $s$ and $p$ orbitals.

Concept introduction:

The number of bonds formed by an atom is generally explained by the octet rule. The octet rule states that there can be a maximum of eight valence electrons around an atom to attain stability. So, if the number of valence electrons in an atom is $x$, then the number of bonds that atom will be making is $8-x$ in order to complete its octet.