What is the electron pair arrangement around the central atom in the molecule IF5?

A.) Trigonal pyramidal

B.) Square Planar

C.) Octahedral

D.) Square Pyramidal

The correct option is: C.) Octahedral

Explanation:

Iodine pentafluoride (IF₅) is an inorganic interhalogen compound in which the oxidation state of iodine is + 5 and the oxidation state of fluorine is (-1).

In this molecule, iodine is sp³d² hybridized and covalently bonded to five fluorine atoms. So there are 5 bond pair of electrons and 1 lone pair of electron around iodine.

Thus the steric number = 6

According to the VSEPR theory, the electron pair arrangement of a molecule with steric number 6 is octahedral.

Therefore, electron pair arrangement around iodine in IF₅ molecule is octahedral.