Chapter 4.8, Problem 4.14P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Lewis structure of the $B{F}_4{}^{-}$ and the molecular shape of the compound has to be determined.

Concept introduction:

In a Lewis structure, lines are represented for the bonding between atoms of a molecule and the dots for the lone pairs of electrons that may exist in the molecule.

Molecular shape can be predicted from the Lewis structure by using the valence-shell Electron-pair repulsion (VSEPR) model.

-Draw the Lewis structure.

-Count the number of valence electron pairs (bond pairs and lone pairs).

-Assume that the valence electron pairs form a structure that allows them to be as far away from each other as possible.

-If there are only two valence electron pairs, the molecule is linear.

-If there are three valence electron pairs, the molecule is shaped like an equilateral triangle.

-If there are four valence electron pairs, the molecule is shaped as a regular tetrahedral.