* Boron's Hybridization: Boron in tribromide has sp² hybridization. This means it forms three sigma bonds, utilizing one 2s and two 2p orbitals.
* Lone Pairs: The central boron atom has no lone pairs of electrons.
* VSEPR Theory: According to the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, the electron pairs around the central atom will arrange themselves to minimize repulsion. In this case, the three bonding pairs (from the bromine atoms) will arrange themselves as far apart as possible, resulting in a linear geometry.
Therefore, the molecular geometry of tribromide (Br₃⁻) is linear.
