Chapter 18.1, Problem 10SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Lewis structure of $PC{l}_3$ is to be drawn. Is it Lewis acid, base or neither.

Concept introduction:

According to Lewis concept,

Acid is a substance which is electron acceptor and base is a substance which is electron donor.

Answer to Problem 10SSC

The Lewis structure of $PC{l}_3$ is:

It is Lewis base.

Explanation of Solution

Phosphorus has 5 electrons and chlorine has 6 electrons in their valence shell. Therefore Lewis structure is:

The Lewis dot structure of $PC{l}_3$ shows that phosphorus has a lone pair of electron available for donation. So it is Lewis base.

Conclusion

Thus, due to lone pair of electron $PC{l}_3$ is Lewis base.