Multiple Choice
Which of the following do Lewis dot structures help us understand for neutral compounds?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following best represents the correct Lewis dot structure for a neutral water (H2O) molecule?
A
O atom in the center with two single bonds to H atoms and no lone pairs on O
B
O atom in the center with one double bond to one H atom and one single bond to the other H atom
C
O atom in the center with two single bonds to H atoms and one lone pair on O
D
O atom in the center with two single bonds to H atoms and two lone pairs on O
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the Lewis dot structure represents the valence electrons of atoms in a molecule, showing bonds and lone pairs explicitly.
Determine the total number of valence electrons: Oxygen has 6 valence electrons, and each hydrogen has 1, so for H2O, total valence electrons = 6 + 2(1) = 8 electrons.
Place the oxygen atom in the center because it is less electronegative than hydrogen and can form multiple bonds; then connect each hydrogen atom to oxygen with a single bond, using 2 electrons per bond.
After forming two single bonds (4 electrons used), distribute the remaining 4 electrons as lone pairs on the oxygen atom to satisfy the octet rule for oxygen.
Verify that each hydrogen has 2 electrons (a full shell for hydrogen) and oxygen has 8 electrons around it (including bonding and lone pairs), confirming the correct Lewis structure has two single bonds and two lone pairs on oxygen.
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