Lewis Structure of NF₃ (Nitrogen Trifluoride)
What is the Lewis structure of NF₃?
NF₃ has 26 valence electrons, 3 bonding electron pairs, and 10 lone pairs. NF₃ has 26 valence electrons. Six are in three N-F bonds, 2 form a lone pair on nitrogen, and 18 form 3 lone pairs on each fluorine. The lone pair on N gives NF₃ a trigonal pyramidal shape.
| Formula | NF₃ |
| Name | Nitrogen Trifluoride |
| Total Valence Electrons | 26 |
| Lone Pairs | 10 |
| Has Resonance | No |
| Concept | Lone Pairs |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Step 1: Count Valence Electrons
N (Group 5A) has 5, each F has 7: 5 + 3(7) = 26 total.
Step 2: Draw the Skeleton
Nitrogen is central, bonded to 3 fluorines. Three bonds use 6 electrons; 20 remain.
Step 3: Distribute Lone Pairs
20 electrons: 3 lone pairs on each F (18 electrons) and 1 lone pair on N (2 electrons). All octets satisfied.
Step 5: Check Formal Charges
- N: FC = 5 - 2 - ½(6) = 0
- F: FC = 7 - 6 - ½(2) = 0
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