Question

What is the shape of a molecule if it has two lone pairs and three bonding pairs of electrons?

• A. trigonal planar
• B. tetrahedral
• C. bent
• D. T-shape

Hint:

Five electron pairs give a trigonal bipyramidal arrangement; the lone pairs occupy equatorial positions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The shape depends on the total number of electron pairs: \(3+2=5\) pairs, which gives a trigonal bipyramidal electron geometry.

Step 2: Place the lone pairs
Lone pairs need more space, so both occupy equatorial positions to minimise repulsion.

Step 3: Place the bond pairs
The three bond pairs occupy the remaining one equatorial and two axial positions.

Step 4: Name the shape
The three atoms form a T-like arrangement, so the shape is T-shaped, option (D). An example is \(\text{ClF}_3\).

Final Answer:
The molecule is T-shaped. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{T-shape}} \]