Chapter 14, Problem 14.68P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structure of ${\text{P}}_{\text{3}}{\text{O}}_{\text{9}}^{\text{3-}}$ cyclic ion has to be predicted by using VSEPR model.

Concept Introduction:

Valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory:

The geometry of molecule is predicted by valence shell electron pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory, this theory state that the repulsion force between lone pair and bond pair electrons of central atom is given by,

Lone pair-lone pair > lone pair - bond pair > bond pair - bond pair

From the order of repulsion forces and number of lone pair electrons, bond pair electrons that are present in the central atom, the geometry of molecule is assigned in the below manner,

Figure 1