TRIGONAL PLANAR Meaning and
Definition
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Trigonal planar is a term commonly used in chemistry to describe the molecular geometry or arrangement of atoms in a molecule or ion. It refers to a type of molecular geometry where three atoms or groups of atoms are arranged around a central atom in a flat, or planar, triangular shape.
In a trigonal planar molecule, the central atom is typically bonded to three other atoms or groups of atoms, which are all located in the same plane, or level, around the central atom. The angle between any two adjacent bonds in a trigonal planar molecule is 120 degrees, which ensures that the three atoms or groups surrounding the central atom are equidistant from each other.
This molecular arrangement is commonly found in molecules and ions that have a central atom with three bonding electron pairs and no lone pairs of electrons. Examples of molecules with a trigonal planar geometry include boron trifluoride (BF3), formaldehyde (CH2O), and ozone (O3).
Trigonal planar geometry not only provides insight into the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule but also has implications for the molecule's chemical behavior and properties. It affects factors such as molecular polarity, molecular vibrations, and steric effects. Understanding the trigonal planar geometry is crucial when predicting and explaining the reactivity and physical properties of various compounds.
Etymology of TRIGONAL PLANAR
The word "trigonal planar" is derived from two main sources:
1. Trigonal comes from the Greek word "trigonon", meaning a "triangle". In this context, trigonal refers to the arrangement of three atoms or groups of atoms around a central atom, forming a triangle.
2. Planar is derived from the Latin word "planus", meaning "flat" or "plane". In the context of molecular geometry, planar refers to the arrangement of the atoms or groups of atoms lying in the same plane.
Therefore, the term "trigonal planar" is used to describe a molecular or geometrical arrangement in which three atoms or groups of atoms are positioned in a flat or planar triangle around a central atom.
