Work out the shape of an SF6 molecule

To work out the shape of the SF6 molecule we can use a simple equation which allows us to work out the number of electron pairs. The equation is (old group + electrons donated +/- charge) / 2. If the charge is positive then take it away and if it is negative then add it on. So for SF6, the molecule is in group 6, each Fluorine atom donates one electron so 6 electrons donated in total, there is no charge so nothing to add or take away. So the number of electron pairs is (6 + 6 + 0) / 2 = 6 electron pairs. There are no double bonds or lone pairs to worry about so the shape is based on an octahedron, so the observed shape of the molecule is octahedral. All the angles in the molecule are 90 degrees.

MW
Answered by Maciej W. Chemistry tutor

3759 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Part a) Draw the mechanism of the attack of CN- on CH3COCH3 in the presence of HCN Part b) Explain why the product of this reaction does not rotate the plane of plane polarised light


Explain the trend in first ionisation energy as you go across Period 3


Determine whether a tertiary halogenoalkane will undergo a SN1 or SN2 reaction. Explain your choice.


Comparing aluminium and magnesium, which has a lower first ionisation energy? Explain.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning