Valence Electrons in PF5

Dr. B explains how to draw the Lewis structure for PF5. Phosphorus has 5 valence electrons, and each of the five Fluorine atoms has 7, totaling 40 valence electrons. Phosphorus is placed in the center with Fluorines around it, connected by single lines representing electron pairs. After using 10 electrons for bonds, 30 are left to fill the octets of the Fluorines. Phosphorus, in period 3, can hold more than 8 electrons, allowing it to have 10. The structure is verified by checking that all formal charges are zero, confirming the correct Lewis structure for PF5.

How many valence electrons does Phosphorus have in PF5?

• 8

• 7

• 5

• 3

What is the total number of valence electrons in PF5?

• 30

• 35

• 40

• 45

How are the Fluorine atoms arranged around the Phosphorus in PF5?

• In a straight line

• Around the Phosphorus in a symmetrical manner

• In a triangular shape

• In a square shape

How many valence electrons are used to connect Phosphorus to Fluorine atoms initially?

• 30

• 40

• 20

• 10

Why is it acceptable for Phosphorus to have more than 8 valence electrons in PF5?

• Because it forms a double bond

• Because it is a metal

• Because it is in period 3 and can hold more than 8 electrons

• Because it is in group 5

What is the formal charge on each atom in the correct Lewis structure of PF5?

• +1

• 0

• +2

• -1