T-shaped molecular geometry

Idealised structure of a compound with T-shaped coordination geometry.

Structure of chlorine trifluoride, an example of a compound with T-shaped coordination geometry.

In chemistry, T-shaped molecular geometry describes the structures adopted by some compounds where a central atom has three ligands. Ordinarily, three-coordinated compounds adopt trigonal planar or pyramidal geometries. Example of a T-shaped molecules are the halogen trifluorides, such as ClF₃.

According to VSEPR theory T-shaped geometry results from three ligands and two lone pairs of electrons bonded to the central atom (known in AXE notation as AX₃E₂). The three atoms bond at 90° angles on one side of the central atom, producing the T shape.

See also

• AXE method

External links

• Chem| Chemistry, Structures, and 3D Molecules
• Indiana University Molecular Structure Center
• Point Group Symmetry| Point Group Symmetry Interactive Examples
• Molecular Modeling
• Animated Trigonal Planar Visual