I keep getting “Octet rule” questions wrong in Chemical Bonding & Molecular Structure. What's the trap?
forcing an octet on exceptions like BeCl₂, BF₃ or SF₆.
The usual trap: forcing an octet on exceptions like BeCl₂, BF₃ or SF₆. How to avoid it: the octet rule is a guide, not a law — watch for electron-deficient and expanded-octet molecules. Go back to the definition — atoms tend to gain, lose or share electrons to reach eight in their outer shell.
Key point
Octet rule
Common mistake
forcing an octet on exceptions like BeCl₂, BF₃ or SF₆.
Memory tip
the octet rule is a guide, not a law — watch for electron-deficient and expanded-octet molecules.
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