220k views
2 votes
Possible shapes of AB3 molecules are linear, trigonal planar, and T-shaped.

a. True
b. False

User Pstanton
by
8.5k points

1 Answer

7 votes

Final answer:

The statement about AB3 molecule shapes being linear, trigonal planar, or T-shaped is false; AB3 molecules are typically trigonal planar or T-shaped if there are lone pairs of electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that possible shapes of AB3 molecules are linear, trigononal planar, and T-shaped is false. A molecule with three electron groups such as AB3 typically orients the three groups as far apart as possible, which leads to a trigonal planar geometry, as seen in molecules like BF3 where the central atom B is bonded to three F atoms. However, molecules with three bonding groups and one lone pair would present a trigonal pyramidal shape, whereas those with two lone pairs would be T-shaped. Linear configuration for AB3 is highly unlikely.

Thus, while AB3 molecules can be trigonal planar or T-shaped if there are lone pairs of electrons on the central atom, they are not typically linear unless there are particular electronic or steric constraints that force this uncommon geometry.

User Issaki
by
8.4k points