Among the following polyatomic ions, which one will experience the maximum 'lone pair - lone pair' electron repulsions on its central atom?

Step-by-step solution

Calculate the number of lone pairs on the central atom for each polyatomic ion: 1. ClO ₃⁻ : The central Cl atom has 7 valence electrons. Adding 1 electron for the negative charge gives 8 available electrons. Three oxygen atoms are divalent and consume 3 2 = 6 electrons for bonding. Remaining electrons = 8 - 6 = 2 (1 lone pair). 2. ICl ₄⁻ : The central I atom has 7 valence electrons. Adding 1 electron for the negative charge gives 8 available electrons. Four chlorine atoms are monovalent and consume 4 electrons. Rem