Answer:
The structure and stereochemistry of simple inorganic molecules can be determined by the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory , i.e VSEPR Theory.
Here the central atom is the one which has a larger size and has a low electronegativity.
Now let us come to the molecule PCl3.
Here phosphorus will be the central atom.
So, now we first need to find out the valence electrons of phosphorus= 5
Number of electrons to form the sigma bond = 3 (for 3 chlorine atoms)
Total number of electrons involved= 5+3 = 8
8 signifies that the molecule will have “tetrahedral” structure.
After putting the 3 Cl atoms in the tetrahedral structure, one site is vacant in which we shall put the lone pair of electrons.
Now, the geometry or shape of the molecule is the shape of the molecule without the lone pair on it.
Hence the shape of PCl3 is “ trigonal pyramidal”.
Hope this helps