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4. PF 3 is AX 3E and so has a trigonal pyramidal shape:
(b) For COCl 2 .
1. Write the Lewis structure:
2. Three electron groups around C (two single and one double bond) (AX3 ) give the trigonal planar arrangement.
3. The ideal angle is 120°, but the double bond between C and O should compress the Cl–C–Cl angle.
4. So the COCl 2 shape is distorted trigonal planar:
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