Question

Use VSEPR theory to predict the molecular geometry of phosgene, Cl2CO.

Answers:
a) t-shaped
b) trigonal planar
c) trigonal bipyramid
d) square planar
e) tetrahedronl

Answer 1

Using VSEPR theory, phosgene (Cl2CO) is predicted to have a trigonal planar electron-pair geometry and a trigonal planar molecular structure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The molecular geometry of phosgene, which has a chemical formula of Cl₂CO, can be predicted using the VSEPR theory. The central atom in phosgene is carbon, which is bonded to two chlorine atoms and has one double bond with oxygen. This gives the molecule a total of three regions of electron density around the central carbon atom, consisting of two single bonds and one double bond. According to VSEPR theory, the electron-pair geometry for three regions of electron density is trigonal planar. Since all of these regions are bonding pairs, the molecular structure of phosgene is also trigonal planar.