Step 1: Evaluation of BF₃
BF₃ exhibits a planar geometry with symmetrically oriented B-F bonds. Consequently, the bond dipole moments neutralize each other, yielding a zero net dipole moment for the molecule. Therefore, option (1) is incorrect.
Step 2: Comparison of NF₃ and NH₃ Dipole Moments
In NF₃, fluorine's superior electronegativity compared to nitrogen results in bond dipoles that do not cancel, thus producing a non-zero dipole moment for NF₃.
While NH₃ also possesses a non-zero dipole moment, NF₃ has a larger dipole moment attributable to the enhanced electronegativity of fluorine. Accordingly, option (2) is correct.
Step 3: Analysis of Options (3) and (4)
Option (3): The Carbonate Ion (CO₃²⁻)
The carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻) is adequately represented by three resonance structures of equivalent contribution, rendering option (3) correct.
Option (4): The Ozone Molecule (O₃)
The ozone molecule (O₃) is characterized by two principal resonance structures, confirming that option (4) is correct.
Step 4: Final Determination
The accurate selection is: Option (4): Three canonical forms can be depicted for the CO₃²⁻ ion.
Major products A and B formed in the following reaction sequence , are