Themes > Science > Chemistry > General Chemistry > Matter > Atoms, Ions, and Molecules > Molecular Shape > Trigonal planar (planar triangular) molecular shape

In this molecular shape all the atoms lie in the same plane. The bond angles are 120o. The three atoms bound to the central atom represent the vertices of a triangle.

Boron trichloride (BCl3) is characterized by trigonal planar molecular shape. It is composed of one boron and three chlorine atoms.


Molecular model of boron trichloride



Structural formula of boron trichloride


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