AIIMS 2018 Chemistry VSEPR Theory MCQ Question

ClF₂⁻ has 3 lone pairs and adopts a linear geometry due to the arrangement of its electron pairs around the central chlorine atom, following the VSEPR theory. In contrast, ClF₄⁻ has 2 lone pairs and exhibits a square planar geometry, as the four fluorine atoms are positioned at the corners of a square with the lone pairs occupying the axial positions. Other options are incorrect because they misassign the number of lone pairs or the geometries associated with each ion. Understanding the relationship between lone pairs and molecular geometry is crucial for predicting the shape of molecules.