Question:

Among the following, the molecule in which all atoms obey the octet rule is

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Atoms follow the octet rule by completing 8 valence electrons, except for elements like Boron (incomplete octet) and Sulfur (expanded octet).
Updated On: May 5, 2026
  • \(BCl_3\)
  • \(BeH_2\)
  • \(SF_6\)
  • \(SCl_2\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The octet rule refers to the tendency of atoms to prefer having eight electrons in their valence shell. This rule is applicable mainly to the main-group elements. Let's analyze each of the given molecules to determine which one adheres to this rule.

  1. \(BCl_3\):
    • Boron has 3 valence electrons and each chlorine atom contributes 1 electron, making a total of 6 electrons around the boron atom.
    • Hence, boron does not fulfill the octet rule. It holds only 6 electrons in its outer shell.
  2. \(BeH_2\):
    • Beryllium has 2 valence electrons and each hydrogen contributes 1 electron, summing up to 4 electrons around the beryllium atom.
    • Beryllium does not adhere to the octet rule since it holds only 4 electrons in its valence shell in this molecule.
  3. \(SF_6\):
    • Sulfur has 6 valence electrons, and each of the six fluorine atoms contributes 1 electron. Thus, there are 12 electrons around the sulfur atom.
    • Sulfur in \(SF_6\) expands beyond the octet rule utilizing d-orbitals. Therefore, it is not restricted to the octet rule.
  4. \(SCl_2\):
    • Sulfur has 6 valence electrons, and each chlorine atom contributes 1 electron, completing the octet with 8 electrons around the sulfur atom.
    • Therefore, the \(SCl_2\) molecule fulfills the octet rule for the sulfur atom.

From the analysis above, in the molecule \(SCl_2\), all atoms obey the octet rule, making it the correct answer.

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