Read the following statements carefully: Statement I: XeF ₂ is a linear molecule with three lone pairs of electrons at equatorial positions. Statement II: ClF ₃ has a T-shape with two lone pairs of electrons at axial positions. Statement III: XeF ₆ has a distorted octahedral shape and sp ^3 d ^3 hybridization. Statement IV: BrF ₅ has a square planar geometry with one lone pair. How many of the given statements are co

Step-by-step solution

Statement I is correct: In XeF ₂ , the central Xe atom has 8 valence electrons. It forms 2 single bonds with F atoms, leaving 3 lone pairs. The hybridization is sp ^3 d . To minimize repulsion, the three lone pairs occupy the equatorial positions, resulting in a linear shape. Statement II is incorrect: In ClF ₃ , the central Cl atom is sp ^3 d hybridized with 3 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs. The lone pairs occupy equatorial positions (not axial) to minimize lone pair-lone pair repulsions, giving it a T-shape. Stateme