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

13943 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

The Haber process is used to produce ammonia. (Insert equation here) Explain the optimum conditions for this reaction and why these may differ from the conditions used in industry.


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


What is the meaning of the term 'structural isomers'?


Predict the relative boiling points of propanal, butane and prop-2-en-1-ol from the highest to the lowest boiling point


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning