Lewis Structure Generator
Bromine trifluoride · BrF3

BrF3 Lewis Structure

Bromine forms three Br–F single bonds and keeps two lone pairs. The five electron domains use a trigonal-bipyramidal arrangement, while the atoms alone form a T-shaped molecule.

Open BrF3 in the generatorSee drawing steps
BrF₃
F | Br—F | F
Two lone pairs on bromine; three on each fluorine
Total valence electrons28
Central lone pairs2
Electron geometryTrigonal bipyramidal
Molecular geometryT-shaped

BrF3 overview

Bromine contributes seven electrons and three fluorines contribute twenty-one. After three bonds and three completed fluorine octets, four electrons remain as two bromine lone pairs.

How to draw BrF3

  1. Count 28 valence electrons.
  2. Place bromine in the center with three fluorine atoms.
  3. Complete fluorine octets.
  4. Put two lone pairs on bromine.
  5. Use AX3E2 VSEPR to obtain a T-shaped molecular geometry.

Electron domains

The two lone pairs occupy equatorial positions in the trigonal-bipyramidal electron arrangement. This leaves two axial Br–F bonds and one equatorial Br–F bond.

Common mistakes

  • Counting only 26 electrons.
  • Placing one lone pair on bromine instead of two.
  • Calling the molecule trigonal planar or pyramidal.
  • Drawing Br=F double bonds.

Last reviewed: July 16, 2026. Educational reference only.