Question

what is the molecular geometry of CF4?

Answer 1

The Rules for Determining Structure are the following(Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Model):

1)Draw the Lewis Structure.

2)Add together the number of atoms bound to the central atom and the number of lone pair electrons and choose the appropriate arrangement. (i.e., linear, triangular planar, tetrahedral, trigonal bipyramidal, or octahedral).

3)Draw the structure, placing the appropriate number of bonds and lone electron pairs about the central atom according to the chosen arrangement.

1,2) Lewis structure using dot diagram: From periodic table we look for Z and electonic configuration for C and F atoms. C(Z=6) : 1s²2s²2p² ... Four valence electrons.

and F (Z=9): 1s²2s²2p²2p^3..... Seven valence electrons.

3) It is tetrahedral, like you can see in the following molecule. Molecular shape: tetrahedral.

: F 132 pm 109.5 0 CF :F