Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
For each interhalogen compound, the central halogen has 7 outer electrons and uses one for each bond. Find the number of lone pairs on the central atom of ClF3 and of BrF5, and of ICl. Find the steric number of IF7. Then name the shape of each of the four compounds.
In an interhalogen compound or a xenon compound, count the lone pairs on the central atom. The number is the outer electrons minus the electrons used in bonds, divided by 2. The steric number is the bonded atoms plus the lone pairs. A weak acid with constant and concentration gives with , and .
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. ClF3. lone pairs. Steric number . T-shaped.
Step 2. BrF5. lone pair. Steric number 6. Square pyramidal.
Step 3. ICl. lone pairs. Steric number 4. Two atoms are always linear.
Step 4. IF7. . Steric number . Pentagonal bipyramidal.
Answer: 2, 1 and 3 lone pairs, and a steric number of 7 for IF7.
Check. The lone pairs and bonds always add up to the steric number: , , and .
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