Draw the structure of chlorine pentafluoride (ClF5) according to the VSEPR theory

The molecule is uncharged, so we can find that chlorine is in its +5 oxidation state. Since there are 5 Cl-F bonds, there are 5 bonding electron pairs around the central Cl atom. We also know that chlorine is in group 7, so it has 7 valence electrons. 5 out of those seven are "tied up" in the Cl-F bonds, thus the remaining two must form a non-bonding electron pair. We have 6 electron pairs (5 bonding and 1 non-bonding) to arrange around the chlorine center - which suggests an octahedral shape. However, since we have one electron pair, the shape of the molecule will be pyramidal.

PS
Answered by Peter S. Chemistry tutor

14841 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain why the first ionisation energy of Strontium is less than the first ionisation energy of Calcium


Calculate the pH of 0.1M Benzoic Acid (C6H5COOH). Ka = 6.3x10-5 M


A solution of ethanoic acid in water has a concentration of 3 g/dm^3. Given that the pKa of ethanoic acid is 4.76, calculate the pH of this solution.


Briefly discuss Le Chatelier's Principle. Ammonia is made in the Haber Process (3H2(g) + N2(g)<-> 2NH3(g)). Using Le Chetelier's Principal, what happens to the equilibrium yield of ammonia when...: A) Temp increases, B) Press increases C) Catalyst changes


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