Question:easy

Which of the following compound has square pyramidal structure?

Show Hint

Count bond pairs and lone pairs on xenon in each compound and use VSEPR.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • \(\text{XeF}_4\)
  • \(\text{XeF}_6\)
  • \(\text{XeO}_3\)
  • \(\text{XeOF}_4\)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Hybridisation check:
Steric number of Xe in each molecule: $\text{XeF}_4 = 6$, $\text{XeF}_6 = 7$, $\text{XeO}_3 = 4$, $\text{XeOF}_4 = 6$.

Step 2: Shape:
Steric number 6 with one lone pair (as in $\text{XeOF}_4$) leaves five atoms around Xe in a square base plus one apex atom: square pyramidal.
Steric number 6 with two lone pairs ($\text{XeF}_4$) puts them on opposite sides, giving a square plane.

Final Answer:
The square pyramidal compound is $\text{XeOF}_4$, option (D). \[ \boxed{\text{XeOF}_4} \]
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