Question

The central atom in the SnCl³⁻ ion has ________ nonbonded electron pair(s) and ________ bonded electron pair(s) in its valence shell.

a. 0, 4
b. 1, 3
c. 3, 2
d. 6, 2

Answer 1

The central atom in the SnCl³⁻ ion has 0 nonbonded electron pair(s) and 4 bonded electron pair(s) in its valence shell. The molecular geometry of SnCl₂ is bent with a Cl-Sn-Cl bond angle of 95°.

Step-by-step explanation:

The central atom in the SnCl³⁻ ion has 0 nonbonded electron pair(s) and 4 bonded electron pair(s) in its valence shell. The molecular geometry of SnCl₂ is bent with a Cl-Sn-Cl bond angle of 95°, which can be described as a trigonal planar arrangement with one vertex missing.