Question

using the vsepr model, predict the molecular geometry of alf₃ (bent, linear, octahedral, seesaw, square planar, square pyramidal, t - shaped, tetrahedral, trigonal bipyramidal, trigonal planar, or trigonal pyramidal).

Explanation:

Step1: Determine central atom

Aluminum (Al) is the central atom in AlF₃.

Step2: Calculate valence - electron pairs

Al has 3 valence electrons and each F contributes 1 electron for bonding. So the number of bonding pairs around Al is 3 and there are 0 lone pairs ($\frac{3 + 3-3\times1}{2}=0$).

Step3: Apply VSEPR model

According to VSEPR, with 3 bonding pairs and 0 lone pairs, the molecular geometry is trigonal planar.

Answer:

trigonal planar