Which is a square planar molecule ?

Options

A. `XeF_(6)`
B. `XeF_(4)`
C. `XeOF_(4)`
D. `XeOF_(2)F_(4)`

Explanation

To determine which molecule is square planar, we can analyze the molecular geometry of the given options. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the concept of molecular geometry
Molecular geometry refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in a molecule. The shape can be influenced by the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs of electrons around the central atom.

### Step 2: Analyze the options
We have the following options to consider:
1. XeF6
2. XeF4
3. XeCl4

### Step 3: Determine the geometry of XeF6
- **XeF6** has 6 fluorine atoms bonded to xenon and 1 lone pair.
- The presence of 6 bond pairs and 1 lone pair leads to a distorted octahedral shape.
- **Conclusion**: XeF6 is not square planar.

### Step 4: Determine the geometry of XeF4
- **XeF4** has 4 fluorine atoms bonded to xenon and 2 lone pairs.
- The arrangement of 4 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs results in a square planar geometry.
- **Conclusion**: XeF4 is square planar.

### Step 5: Determine the geometry of XeCl4
- **XeCl4** has 4 chlorine atoms bonded to xenon and 1 lone pair.
- The presence of 4 bond pairs and 1 lone pair results in a square pyramidal shape.
- **Conclusion**: XeCl4 is not square planar.

### Final Conclusion
The only molecule that is square planar among the options provided is **XeF4**.