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Chapter 9: Problem 40

Explain the concept of formal charge. Do formal charges on a molecule represent actual separation of charges?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Formal charge is a concept in chemistry that represents the electron density around an atom in a molecule, indicating if it is electron-rich or deficient. It is calculated based on valence electrons and bonding behavior. It is crucial to note that formal charges do not denote actual separation of charges, but instead represent regions of relative electron density within the molecule.

Step by step solution

01

Define Formal Charge

Formal Charge is a measure of the tendency of an atom to attract electrons to itself in a molecule or polyatomic ion. It is calculated based on the arrangement of electrons around an atom. It doesn't reflect the actual charge on an atom.
02

Explain the Calculation of Formal Charge

The formal charge of an atom in a molecule is calculated as the difference between the number of valence electrons in an isolated atom and the number of electrons assigned to that atom in the molecule. In the molecule, the electrons are assigned according to the following rules: Each lone (unshared) pair of electrons is assigned to the atom on which they are located, while each bonding pair of electrons is divided equally between the two bonded atoms.
03

Explain the significance of Formal Charges

The concept of formal charge is a method to keep track of the electrons. They give an indication about the distribution of electrons in a molecule or ion. It allows scientists to draw several possible structures for a molecule or ion and then to determine the most likely structure.
04

Clarify the meaning of Formal Charges

While formal charges do not represent actual separation of charges, they are useful in predicting the outcome of reactions. A formal charge does not constitute actual charge separation; it is only a theoretical construct. A molecule with a formal charge does not have a positive or negative charge as a whole, but represents regions where there is a higher or lower density of electrons.

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