Activity 3: Reasoning Challenge
Directions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences only.
1. VSEPR theory specifies "valence shell" electrons. Explain why these are
the most critical electrons for determining molecular shape?
2. Avogadro does not "waste" his time drawing a Lewis structure before
determining the shape of PF3. He thinks that the shape of PF3 must be trigonal
planar because there are three fluorine atoms bonded to the central
phosphorus atom.
a. Draw the Lewis structure for PF3.
b. Was Avogadro's answer for the shape of a PF3 molecule correct? Explain
c. Why is it important to draw the Lewis structure for a molecule before
identifying the shape of the molecule?
3. Draw the Lewis structure of ozone, O3 Describe why ozone has a bent shape
instead of a linear shape.​