XeF₂ has two Xe–F bonds and three lone pairs on xenon. Five electron domains adopt a trigonal-bipyramidal electron arrangement, while the molecular geometry is linear.
The three xenon lone pairs occupy equatorial electron-domain positions
Valence electrons22
Lone pairs on Xe3
Electron geometryTrigonal bipyramidal
Molecular geometryLinear
How to draw XeF2
Count 22 electrons.
Xenon contributes 8 and two fluorines contribute 14.
Draw F–Xe–F.
Two single bonds use 4 electrons.
Complete fluorine octets.
Each fluorine receives three lone pairs, using 12 more electrons.
Place the remaining six electrons on xenon.
These form three lone pairs.
Apply VSEPR.
Three lone pairs occupy equatorial positions; the two Xe–F bonds remain axial and 180° apart.
Electron check
Two bonds use 4 electrons, six fluorine lone pairs use 12, and three xenon lone pairs use 6, totaling 22.
Why it is linear
The electron-domain geometry contains five regions, but only the two bonded fluorines determine molecular geometry. Their axial positions produce a linear molecule.
Common mistakes
Drawing only one lone pair on xenon.
Calling XeF2 bent because xenon has lone pairs.
Confusing electron-domain geometry with molecular geometry.