Chemistry - CHEMICAL BONDING Question with Solution | TestHub

Explanation:

To determine the number of lone pairs on the central atom, we use VSEPR theory.

For BrF₅: Central atom Br has 7 valence electrons. 5 F atoms form 5 bonds. Remaining electrons = $7-5=2$. This means 1 lone pair.

For ClF₃: Central atom Cl has 7 valence electrons. 3 F atoms form 3 bonds. Remaining electrons = $7-3=4$. This means 2 lone pairs.

For XeF₄: Central atom Xe has 8 valence electrons. 4 F atoms form 4 bonds. Remaining electrons = $8-4=4$. This means 2 lone pairs.

For SF₄: Central atom S has 6 valence electrons. 4 F atoms form 4 bonds. Remaining electrons = $6-4=2$. This means 1 lone pair.

Therefore, ClF₃ and XeF₄ have two lone pairs on the central atom.