Trigonal planar (planar triangular) molecular shape

In this molecular shape all the atoms lie in the same plane. The bond angles are 120^o. 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

Animated model of boron trichloride

Structural formula of boron trichloride

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Created and maintained by: Dr. Anna Cavinato anna.cavinato@eou.edu and Dr. David Camp
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All Material Copyright Eastern ChemWeb, Eastern Oregon University, 2003.