Multiple Choice
Which process do nonmetals typically undergo to obey the octet rule?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Octet Rule
Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules contains an atom that does not obey the octet rule?
A
CH4
B
CO2
C
NH3
D
BF3
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the octet rule: atoms tend to form bonds until they are surrounded by eight electrons in their valence shell, achieving a stable electron configuration similar to noble gases.
Examine each molecule to determine if all atoms obey the octet rule by counting the valence electrons around each atom after bonding:
For CH4 (methane), carbon forms four single bonds with hydrogen, giving carbon 8 electrons in its valence shell, so it obeys the octet rule.
For CO2 (carbon dioxide), carbon forms two double bonds with oxygen atoms, resulting in 8 electrons around carbon and oxygen atoms, so all obey the octet rule.
For NH3 (ammonia), nitrogen forms three single bonds with hydrogen and has one lone pair, totaling 8 electrons around nitrogen, so it obeys the octet rule.
For BF3 (boron trifluoride), boron forms three single bonds with fluorine atoms but only has 6 electrons around it, which means boron does not obey the octet rule and is electron-deficient.
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When sulfur forms compounds such as SF6, how does it relate to the octet rule?
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Atoms of which elements commonly form bonds without satisfying the octet rule?
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