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The next step is to decide on the central atom. Which should be the central atom for SiF4, and why?

Options:
(A) Si, because it is the largest atom.
(B) F, because it is the most electronegative.
(C) Si, because it can form the most bonds.
(D) F, because it has the fewest valence electrons.

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Silicon (Si) should be the central atom in SiF4 because it is less electronegative than fluorine and can form four bonds, which is required for bonding with four fluorine atoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The central atom for SiF4 should be silicon (Si). This is because in general, the central atom is usually the least electronegative element in the molecule or ion, and hydrogen and the halogens are usually terminal. In this molecule, fluorine (F) is one of the halogens and is also the most electronegative element. Therefore, it is not likely to serve as a central atom. Furthermore, silicon can form four bonds, which is necessary in SiF4 where silicon is bonded to four fluorine atoms. The correct answer is: (C) Si, because it can form the most bonds.

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