Question

Explain the formation of PCl5 molecule with expanded octet.​

Answer 1

Answer:

In order for the P atom to form bonds with 5 Cl atoms, it must have an expanded octet. Every one of the five bonds constitutes two electrons, so the P atom has two electrons beyond the octet. Since P is a 3rd period element, it can fill one of its empty d orbitals with these two extra electrons.