T-shaped molecular geometry

Idealised structure of a compound with T-shaped coordination geometry.

Structure of chlorine trifluoride, an example of a compound with T-shaped coordination geometry.

In chemistry, T-shaped molecular geometry describes the structures adopted by some compounds where a central atom has three ligands. Ordinarily, three-coordinated compounds adopt trigonal planar or pyramidal geometries. Example of a T-shaped molecules are the halogen trifluorides, such as ClF₃.^[1]

According to VSEPR theory T-shaped geometry results from three ligands and two or three lone pairs of electrons bonded to the central atom (known in AXE notation as AX₃E₂ and AX₃E₃, respectively). The three atoms bond at 90° angles on one side of the central atom, producing the T shape.^[2]

See also

• AXE method

References

1. ↑ Greenwood, N. N.; & Earnshaw, A. (1997). Chemistry of the Elements (2nd Edn.), Oxford:Butterworth-Heinemann. ISBN 0-7506-3365-4.
2. ↑ "Chemistry Dictionary and Glossary." 2005. http://www.ktf-split.hr/glossary/no_en_o.php?def=T-shaped%20molecular%20shape

External links

• Chem| Chemistry, Structures, and 3D Molecules
• Indiana University Molecular Structure Center
• Interactive molecular examples for point groups
• Molecular Modeling
• Animated Trigonal Planar Visual