The molecule exhibiting maximum number of non-bonding electron pairs (l.p.) around the central atom is :

Options

A. `XeOF_(4)`
B. `XeO_(2)F_(2)`
C. `XeF_(3)^(+)`
D. `XeO_(3)`

Answer

To determine which molecule exhibits the maximum number of non-bonding electron pairs (lone pairs) around the central atom, we will analyze the given options systematically.

### Step 1: Understand the concept of lone pairs
Lone pairs are pairs of valence electrons that are not involved in bonding. They are important in determining the shape and reactivity of molecules.

### Step 2: Identify the central atom and its valence electrons
We will look at the central atom in each molecule and count its valence electrons. The central atom is usually the atom that can form the most bonds or is the least electronegative.

### Step 3: Analyze each option
1. **Option A: Xenon (Xe)**
- Valence electrons: 8
- Bonds formed: 5 (with 5 surrounding atoms)
- Lone pairs: 1 (8 - 5 = 3, but only 1 is a lone pair since it forms 5 bonds)

2. **Option B: Xenon (Xe)**
- Valence electrons: 8
- Bonds formed: 4 (with 4 surrounding atoms)
- Lone pairs: 2 (8 - 4 = 4, but only 2 are lone pairs since it forms 4 bonds)

3. **Option C: Xenon trifluoride (XeF3+)**
- Valence electrons: 8
- Bonds formed: 3 (with 3 fluorine atoms)
- Lone pairs: 2 (8 - 3 = 5, but only 2 are lone pairs since it forms 3 bonds)

4. **Option D: Xenon trioxide (XeO3)**
- Valence electrons: 8
- Bonds formed: 3 (with 3 oxygen atoms)
- Lone pairs: 1 (8 - 3 = 5, but only 1 is a lone pair since it forms 3 bonds)

### Step 4: Compare the number of lone pairs
Now, we compare the number of lone pairs in each option:
- Option A: 1 lone pair
- Option B: 2 lone pairs
- Option C: 2 lone pairs
- Option D: 1 lone pair

### Step 5: Conclusion
The maximum number of lone pairs is found in Option B and Option C, both having 2 lone pairs. However, the question asks for the maximum number of non-bonding electron pairs around the central atom, and since both options have the same number, we can conclude that the molecule exhibiting the maximum number of non-bonding electron pairs is **XeF3+ (Option C)**.

### Final Answer:
**The molecule exhibiting maximum number of non-bonding electron pairs around the central atom is XeF3+.**