Structural Chemistry Tutorial Page
T-Shaped (AX3E2)
This is an example of a t-shaped molecule. These molecules consist of
three atoms surrounding a central atom. The central atom has two lone
pairs of electrons which make the angles close to 90 degrees. The lone
pairs on the central atom repel the adjacent atoms, preventing the molecule
from taking the shape of a trigonal planar molecule. An example of a t-shaped molecule is
chlorine trifluoride, ClF3. Call the axial atoms F2, and the basal atom F1. The F2-Cl-F1
angle is 87.5 degrees, and the F2-Cl bond length is 1.70 Angstroms. The F1-Cl bond length is 1.60 Angstroms.
These angles will vary as the outer atoms change in nucleic strength from molecule to molecule.
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moving it across the image. To rotate the molecule manually, hold the
left mouse button and drag it across the picture.
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