According to VSEPR theory, how should the molecular shape of AsF3 be classified?

Question

A. trigonal pyramidal, because the arsenic atom forms three single covalent bonds and has one lone pair
B. linear, because the arsenic atoms forms bonds with only one other type of atom
C. tetrahedral, because the arsenic atom forms bonds with the three atoms and the lone pair
D. trigonal planar, because the arsenic atoms forms three single covalent bonds and has no lone pairs

Answer 1

The correct answer is A. trigonal pyramidal, because the arsenic atom forms three single covalent bonds and has one lone pair.

According to VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory, the presence of the lone pair on the arsenic atom pushes down the three bonding pairs, resulting in a trigonal pyramidal shape. This geometry is similar to that of ammonia (NH3), which also has a central atom bonded to three other atoms and one lone pair.