Question

According to the VSEPR theory, the shape of $Cl{O}_3^{-}$ would be

• A. Linear
• B. Triangular planar
• C. Pyramidal
• D. Square planar
• E. Angular

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

According to VSEPR theory, the shape of a molecule depends upon the number of valence shell electron pairs around the central atom. Pairs of electrons in the valence shell repel each other. The order of their repulsions is

$lp-lp>lp-bp>bp-bp$

The geometry of $Cl{O}_3^{-}$ is tetrahedron but due to the presence of $lp-bp$ repulsion, the structure changes to pyramidal shape.