NF3 has three F atoms bonded to a central N atom, with one lone electron pair on the N. What is the shape of this molecule?A.TetrahedralB.Trigonal pyramidalC.BentD.Trigonal planarSUBMITarrow_backPREVIOUS

The shape of the NF3 molecule is Trigonal pyramidal.

Here's the step-by-step explanation:

1. Nitrogen (N) is in the center because Fluorine (F) is a Halogen and tends to stay on the outside of molecules.

2. Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons and Fluorine has 7. Since there are three Fluorine atoms, the total number of valence electrons is 5+(3*7)=26.

3. Three of Nitrogen's valence electrons will pair with three of the Fluorine atoms, forming covalent bonds. This leaves Nitrogen with one lone pair of electrons and each Fluorine with three lone pairs.

4. The VSEPR theory states that the electron pairs around an atom (both bonding and non-bonding) will arrange themselves in a way that minimizes repulsion.

5. In the case of NF3, there are three bonding pairs and one non-bonding pair. According to VSEPR theory, this arrangement results in a Trigonal pyramidal shape.

So, the correct answer is B. Trigonal pyramidal.