Question

vsepr predicts an sbf₅ molecule will be which of the following shapes?
tetrahedral
trigonal bipyramidal
square pyramid
trigonal planar
square planar

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate valence electrons of Sb

Antimony (Sb) has 5 valence electrons.

Step2: Determine bonding pairs

Sb forms 5 single bonds with F atoms, so 5 bonding pairs (no lone pairs).

Step3: Assign electron geometry

5 electron domains (all bonding) correspond to trigonal bipyramidal shape.

Answer:

trigonal bipyramidal