Answer: Lone pair-lone pair repulsion between the very close F atoms weakens the bond.
- A Lone pair-lone pair repulsion between the very close F atoms weakens the bond
- B Fluorine generally has a lower atomic number than chlorine in typical laboratory settings
- C The F-F bond has significant ionic character unlike Cl-Cl under usual circumstances
- D Chlorine atoms are larger, which directly strengthens their bond according to most researchers
Correct answer: A. Lone pair-lone pair repulsion between the very close F atoms weakens the bond
Explanation: Fluorine atoms are tiny; adjacent lone pairs on the two F atoms experience intense repulsion, weakening the F-F bond.
VSEPR theory predicts molecular shape from the number of bonding and lone electron pairs around the central atom.
Concept context
Understand how atoms join to form molecules. Covers ionic and covalent bonding, VSEPR theory, hybridization (sp, sp², sp³), molecular orbital theory, bond polarity, and intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonding.
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