Chapter 16: Problem 7

Make a checklist that can used to determine if a Lewis structure is correct and that it is the best Lewis structure.

Short Answer

Expert verified

A correct and best Lewis structure can be determined by confirming the arrangement of atoms, validating the total count of valence electrons, adhering to the Octet rule, minimizing formal charges, and understanding possible exceptions.

Step by step solution

Checking Atoms Arrangement

First, confirm the arrangement of atoms. Generally, the least electronegative atom is placed in the centre, while Hydrogen and Halogens usually go on the periphery as they form only one bond.

Validate Electron Count

Make sure that the total count of valence electrons in the structure corresponds to the sum of valence electrons of the individual atoms.

Respect the Octet Rule

Confirm that every atom (except Hydrogen, since it can only accommodate two electrons) in the structure is surrounded by eight electrons in their valence shell. This includes lone pairs and shared pairs of electrons.

Minimize Formal Charges

Inspect the formal charges. The best Lewis structure is one with minimized formal charges. If there are multiple structures, the most suitable structure is the one where the formal charge is closest to zero.

Understand Exceptions

Understand that there could be exceptions to the Octet rule (for instance, molecules containing P, S, Cl can accommodate more than eight electrons). Also, resonance structures could be possible where multiple structures are correct.

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Make a checklist that can used to determine if a Lewis structure is correct and that it is the best Lewis structure.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Checking Atoms Arrangement

Validate Electron Count

Respect the Octet Rule

Minimize Formal Charges

Understand Exceptions

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