Determine the electron geometry, molecular geometry, and idealized bond angles for CF4

To determine the electron geometry and molecular geometry of CF₄ (Carbon Tetrafluoride), we start by analyzing the central atom, carbon.

Carbon has four valence electrons and forms single covalent bonds with four fluorine atoms. Thus, the total number of electron domains around the carbon atom is four (one for each C-F bond).

The electron geometry is determined by the arrangement of these electron domains. With four electron domains, the electron geometry of CF₄ is tetrahedral.

Since there are no lone pairs of electrons on the carbon atom, the molecular geometry is also tetrahedral.

In a tetrahedral geometry, the idealized bond angles between the C-F bonds are approximately 109.5°. This geometry allows for maximum separation between the bonding pairs of electrons, minimizing repulsion.

In summary, for CF₄:

• Electron Geometry: Tetrahedral
• Molecular Geometry: Tetrahedral
• Idealized Bond Angles: 109.5°