Question

Match molecules with correct geometries:
BrF$_5$, XeF$_4$, ClF$_3$, SF$_4$

• A. A-IV, B-III, C-II, D-I
• B. A-II, B-IV, C-III, D-I
• C. A-IV, B-III, C-I, D-II
• D. A-I, B-III, C-II, D-IV

Hint:

Use VSEPR: count electron domains first, then assign shape.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: BrF$_5$ has 6 electron pairs (5 bond + 1 lone pair) → square pyramidal → IV.

Step 2: XeF$_4$ has 6 electron pairs (4 bond + 2 lone pairs) → square planar → III.

Step 3: ClF$_3$ has 5 electron pairs (3 bond + 2 lone pairs) → T-shaped → I.

Step 4: SF$_4$ has 5 electron pairs (4 bond + 1 lone pair) → see-saw → II.

Step 5: Final matching: A-IV, B-III, C-I, D-II.