The square planar molecular geometry is exhibited by which of the following compounds? — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Xenon in $XeF_4$ ($sp^3d^2$) has 4 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs. To minimize severe lone pair-lone pair repulsion at $90^\circ$, the two lone pairs are positioned axially ($180^\circ$ apart), leaving the 4 fluorine atoms in a flat square planar arrangement.