Chapter 8.7, Problem 1PPA

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Lewis structure of the ${\text{NF}}_{\text{3}}$, nitrogen trifluoride, molecule is to be represented.

Concept introduction:

The structure used to show the bonding between atoms and a lone pair of electrons of the molecule is known as the Lewis structure.

The rules for drawing the Lewis structure is as follows:

The skeletal structure of the compound is drawn. It contains the less electronegative element placed as a central atom surrounded by substituent atoms.

The total number of valence electrons for the compound is determined.

Subtract two electrons for each bond in the skeletal structure from the total number of valence electrons, to know the remaining electrons.

Complete the octet of each terminal atom by placing a pair of electrons from the remaining electrons.

If any electrons are remaining after completing the octet of terminal atoms, place the remaining electrons as a pair on the central atom.

If the central atom contains less than $8$ electrons, move a pair of electrons from a terminal atom to form a double or triple bond between terminal atoms and central atom.