A Levels Chemistry (9701)•9701/11/M/J/21

Explanation
VSEPR theory determines molecular geometries and bond angles Steps:
- Identify central atom valence electrons and domains (bonds + lone pairs) for each molecule.
- Predict electron pair geometry: tetrahedral for 4 domains, trigonal planar for 3 domains.
- Determine molecular geometry by ignoring lone pairs for shape and bond angles.
- Compare predicted angles to 120° (characteristic of trigonal planar AX3).
Why B is correct:
- PF3 has phosphorus with 3 bonding pairs and 1 lone pair (AX3E), but electron geometry is tetrahedral; however, not enough information on exact angles or full options to confirm, though standard data shows ~97° F-P-F, not 120°—ambiguous without D.
Why the others are wrong:
- A. CH3 (methyl radical) is AX3, trigonal planar with 120° angles.
- C. NF3 is AX3E, trigonal pyramidal with ~102° N-F angles.
Not enough information. Final answer: Not enough information.
Topic: Chemical bonding
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