Trigonal Planar
The term "Trigonal Planar" refers to a molecular geometry where a central atom is bonded to three other atoms, forming a flat, triangular shape. This arrangement occurs when there are no lone pairs of electrons on the central atom, allowing the bonded atoms to spread out evenly at angles of 120 degrees.
Common examples of trigonal planar molecules include boron trifluoride (BF₃) and ethylene (C₂H₄). The trigonal planar shape is a result of the repulsion between the electron pairs surrounding the central atom, which minimizes the energy of the molecule and stabilizes its structure.