Phosphorus and PBr5 Valence Electrons

Dr. B explains how to draw the Lewis structure for PBr5. The process involves calculating the total valence electrons, placing Phosphorus in the center, and arranging Bromines around it. Bonds are drawn between Phosphorus and each Bromine, using up valence electrons. The remaining electrons are used to complete the octets for Bromines. Phosphorus, being in period 3, can have more than eight valence electrons. The structure is verified by checking formal charges, which are all zero, confirming the structure's validity.

How many total valence electrons are present in PBr5?

• 50

• 35

• 40

• 45

Which atom is placed at the center of the PBr5 structure?

• Iodine

• Chlorine

• Phosphorus

• Bromine

How many valence electrons are used to form bonds between Phosphorus and Bromine in PBr5?

• 8

• 10

• 12

• 14

What is the total number of valence electrons left after forming initial bonds in PBr5?

• 30

• 25

• 20

• 35

Why is it acceptable for Phosphorus to have more than eight valence electrons in PBr5?

• It is in period 2 of the periodic table.

• It is in period 3 of the periodic table.

• It forms ionic bonds.

• It is a noble gas.

What is the formal charge on each atom in the PBr5 Lewis structure?

• +2

• 0

• -1

• +1