Question

Give the formula for each compound. chlorine trifluoride

Short answer

The formula for chlorine trifluoride is \(ClF_3\).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the elements

The compound is called "chlorine trifluoride," which means it consists of two elements: chlorine (Cl) and fluorine (F).

Understand the prefix

The prefix "tri-" indicates that there are three atoms of fluorine (F) attached to a single chlorine (Cl) atom in the molecule.

Determine valency

Chlorine belongs to Group 17 in the periodic table and has a valency of 1. Fluorine also belongs to Group 17 and has a valency of 1. In the compound, there are three fluorine atoms, each with a valence of 1.

Write the formula

As we know there is one chlorine atom and three fluorine atoms in the compound, we will write the formula as: \[ClF_3\] So, the formula for chlorine trifluoride is ClF3.

Key concepts

Chlorine Trifluoride and Its Composition

Chlorine trifluoride is an intriguing chemical compound that consists of two elements: chlorine (Cl) and fluorine (F). This compound is known by its formula \( ClF_3 \), where 'Cl' stands for chlorine, and 'F' denotes fluorine. The 'tri' in trifluoride specifies the presence of three fluorine atoms in the structure. This understanding of its name can guide us to determine its molecular formula correctly.

The naming conventions and prefixes in chemistry often provide essential hints about the compound's composition. For chlorine trifluoride, the prefix 'tri-' is key, indicating the attachment of three fluorine atoms to a single chlorine atom.

• Chlorine is the central atom.
• Three fluorine atoms surround it.

Recognizing these parts leads us to write the formula \( ClF_3 \), capturing the complete structure of the compound.

Understanding Molecular Compounds

Molecular compounds are forged through the bonds between nonmetallic elements. They share electrons to form molecules. Chlorine trifluoride is a prime example of a molecular compound, where chlorine and fluorine are both nonmetals.

A typical molecular compound is characterized by using prefixes like 'mono-', 'di-', 'tri-', etc., to indicate the number of atoms present. In \( ClF_3 \), the 'tri-' prefix reveals the presence of three fluorine atoms linked to one chlorine atom.

• Molecular compounds often have simple formulas derived from their names.
• They involve covalent bonding where atoms share electrons.

Chlorine trifluoride, as a molecular compound, showcases these traits by having a defined electron sharing that results in a stable molecular structure.

Exploring Valency in Chemistry

Valency is a crucial concept in chemistry, representing the ability of an atom to combine with other atoms. It denotes the number of electrons an element can use to bond. Both chlorine and fluorine, part of Group 17 in the periodic table, have a typical valency of 1.

In chlorine trifluoride, the valency guides how the atoms come together. Chlorine uses its valency of 1 to bond with each of the three fluorine atoms, whose own valency of 1 allows them to share an electron with chlorine. Thus:

• Chlorine can form up to three bonds with fluorine.
• Fluorine, with a valency of 1, forms one bond per atom.

This understanding of valency is crucial when predicting the chemical formula and stability of compounds like \( ClF_3 \). Ultimately, it aids in comprehending the relation between elements and how they create a balanced compound.