what is the molecular geometry of CF4?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The molecular geometry of carbon tetrafluoride (CF₄) is tetrahedral.
Explanation:
- Lewis Structure and Electron Domains:
Carbon tetrafluoride (CF₄) consists of a central carbon (C) atom bonded to four fluorine (F) atoms via single covalent bonds. Carbon has four valence electrons, and fluorine has seven valence electrons. Each fluorine forms a single bond with carbon, completing both their octets. - Electron Pair Repulsion and VSEPR Theory:
According to Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) Theory, the shape of a molecule is determined by the repulsions between electron pairs around the central atom. In CF₄, the carbon atom is surrounded by four bonding pairs of electrons and no lone pairs. These electron pairs repel each other and arrange themselves as far apart as possible in three-dimensional space, leading to a tetrahedral geometry. - Bond Angles and Symmetry:
The tetrahedral geometry ensures that all F-C-F bond angles are 109.5°, which minimizes repulsion between the bonding pairs. The molecule is highly symmetrical and nonpolar because the dipole moments of the C-F bonds cancel out. - Comparison with Other Similar Molecules:
- Methane (CH₄) also has a tetrahedral geometry due to similar bonding principles.
- XeF₄, in contrast, has a square planar geometry because xenon has lone pairs.
- Applications and Properties:
- CF₄ is a nonpolar gas used in semiconductor manufacturing and plasma etching.
- Due to strong C-F bonds, it has a high thermal stability.
Molecular Geometry Image:
Now, I will generate an image of the tetrahedral structure of CF₄.
Here is the 3D molecular structure of CF₄ (carbon tetrafluoride) showing its tetrahedral geometry. The central carbon (C) atom is symmetrically surrounded by four fluorine (F) atoms, with bond angles of approximately 109.5°. Let me know if you need any modifications!