Statement-1: \( \text{ClF}_3 \) has 3 possible structures. Statement-2: \( \text{III} \) is the most stable structure due to least lone pair-bond pair (lp-bp) repulsion.
Which of the following options is correct?
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In determining molecular stability, the structure with the least lone pair-bond pair repulsion is the most stable.
Statement-1 is correct and Statement-2 is incorrect.
Statement-1 is incorrect and Statement-2 is correct.
Both Statement-1 and Statement-2 are correct.
Both Statement-1 and Statement-2 are incorrect.
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The Correct Option isA
Solution and Explanation
Evaluation of the statements is as follows:
- Statement 1: \( \text{ClF}_3 \) exhibits 3 potential structures. This statement is accurate. The molecule \( \text{ClF}_3 \) (chlorine trifluoride) can exist in three distinct resonance structures, arising from varied arrangements of lone pairs and bonding pairs around the central chlorine atom. These structures are: 1. Structure I: \( \text{Cl} \) is bonded to 3 fluorine atoms, with lone pairs arranged appropriately. 2. Structure II: An alternative resonance form of \( \text{ClF}_3 \). 3. Structure III: A third configuration with different electron pair distributions. - Statement 2: Structure \( \text{III} \) is the most stable due to minimal lp-bp repulsion. This statement is inaccurate. For \( \text{ClF}_3 \), Structure I is the configuration with the least lp-bp repulsion, not Structure III. Structure III experiences greater lone pair-bond pair (lp-bp) repulsion because of the placement of lone pairs. Consequently, the most stable structure is the one with the least repulsion, which is Structure I. Therefore, the correct conclusion is (1)
Statement 1 is correct, and Statement 2 is incorrect.
