Sure, let's break down the requested details regarding the borate [tex]\(\left( \text{BO}_3^{3-} \right)\)[/tex] anion.
### How many electron groups are around the central boron atom?
In the borate anion [tex]\(\left( \text{BO}_3^{3-} \right)\)[/tex], the boron atom is the central atom. Boron typically forms three bonds in compounds where it participates. These bonds can count as electron groups.
- For the borate anion, the boron atom forms double bonds with three oxygen atoms.
Thus, the number of electron groups around the central boron atom is:
3 electron groups
### What phrase best describes the arrangement of these electron groups around the central boron atom?
In chemistry, the arrangement of these electron groups around the central atom dictates the molecular geometry. With 3 electron groups and no lone pairs on the central atom, the electron pair geometry as well as the molecular shape of the molecule will follow a specific spatial arrangement. For 3 electron groups, this typical arrangement is trigonal planar.
Trigonal planar
So, filling out the table:
[tex]\[
\begin{array}{|l|l|}
\hline
\text{How many electron groups are around the central boron atom?} & 3 \\
\hline
\begin{array}{l}
\text{What phrase best describes the arrangement of these electron} \\
\text{groups around the central boron atom?}
\end{array} & \text{Trigonal planar} \\
\hline
\end{array}
\][/tex]
