NF3 has a bond angle of 102.5º, while PF3 has a bond angle of 96.3º. What is the best explanation for the larger bond angle in NF3? | Bonding

Question

NF₃ has a bond angle of 102.5º, while PF₃ has a bond angle of 96.3º. What is the best explanation for the larger bond angle in NF3?

The nitrogen 2s orbital participates more in bonding than does the phosphorus 3s orbital.

✓ Correct

Nitrogen is more electronegative than phosphorus.

NF₃ has no unpaired electrons while PF₃ has two unpaired electrons.

NF₃ is an ionic compound while PF₃ forms covalent bonds.

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