Question

The numbers of lone pair (s) on $Xe$ in $XeF_2$ and $XeF_4$ are, respectively

• A. 2 and 3
• B. 4 and 1
• C. 3 and 2
• D. 4 and 2

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

As $Xe$ has eight valence electrons. In $XeF_2$, $Xe$ forms $2$ bonds with fluorine thus $6$ electrons remains unbonded. So, it has $3$ lone pairs. While in $XeF_4$, $Xe$ form $4$ bonds with fluorine, thus $4$ electrons remain unbonded. Thus, it has $2$ lone pairs.