Question

Which of the following is the correct and increasing order of lone pairs of electrons on the central atom?

• A. \( \text{IF}_7 < \text{IF}_5 < \text{ClF}_3 < \text{XeF}_2 \)
• B. \( \text{IF}_7 < \text{XeF}_2 < \text{ClF}_2 < \text{IF}_5 \)
• C. \( \text{IF}_7 < \text{ClF}_3 < \text{XeF}_2 < \text{IF}_5 \)
• D. IF₇ < XeF₂ < IF₅ < ClF₃

Hint:

Count total valence electrons to find lone pairs.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Lone pairs: IF₇:0, IF₅:1, ClF₃:2, XeF₂:3.