Question:

The shape of XeF4 is: Square planar.

Show Hint

XeF4: 4 bonds + 2 lone pairs. Lone pairs "sandwich" the square of Fluorines to keep it flat.
Updated On: May 5, 2026
  • Tetrahedral
  • Square planar
  • See-saw
  • Trigonal bipyramidal
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
The shape of a molecule is determined by the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, considering both bonding and lone pairs of electrons.

Step 2: Meaning

Xenon ($Xe$) has 8 valence electrons. In $XeF_4$, it forms 4 bonds with Fluorine, leaving 4 electrons (2 lone pairs).

Step 3: Analysis

With 4 bonding pairs and 2 lone pairs, the steric number is 6, corresponding to an octahedral electron geometry. To minimize repulsion, the two lone pairs occupy opposite axial positions.

Step 4: Conclusion

The remaining 4 Fluorine atoms are arranged in a single plane around the central Xenon atom, resulting in a square planar molecular geometry. Final Answer: (B)
Was this answer helpful?
0
0