Max number of atoms in the same plane in molecule P(CH3)3(CF3)2

Introduction:
In chemistry, the study of molecular geometry helps to understand the shape and structure of molecules. Molecules can be arranged in different shapes, such as linear, trigonal planar, tetrahedral, and so on. The number of atoms that can lie in the same plane in a molecule depends on its geometry.

Explanation:
The molecule P(CH3)3(CF3)2 is a phosphorus compound with three methyl groups and two trifluoromethyl groups attached to it. The molecular geometry of this compound is trigonal bipyramidal, which means that the central phosphorus atom is surrounded by five other atoms or groups.

In this geometry, three of the groups lie in one plane, while the other two are perpendicular to it. Therefore, the maximum number of atoms that can lie in the same plane in this molecule is seven, which includes the central phosphorus atom and three methyl groups and three fluorine atoms.

Conclusion:
In summary, the maximum number of atoms that can lie in the same plane in the molecule P(CH3)3(CF3)2 is seven. This is because the molecular geometry of this compound is trigonal bipyramidal, which allows for three groups to lie in one plane and the other two to be perpendicular to it.