Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the Lewis dot structure of a neutral F2 molecule?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following statements correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of CH3Cl (chloromethane)?
A
The central carbon atom is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and two chlorine atoms, with one lone pair on carbon.
B
The central carbon atom is bonded to three hydrogen atoms and one chlorine atom, with no lone pairs on carbon.
C
The central carbon atom is bonded to three hydrogen atoms and one chlorine atom, with one lone pair on carbon.
D
The central carbon atom is bonded to four hydrogen atoms, with one lone pair on chlorine.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in CH3Cl. Carbon (C) is the central atom because it can form four bonds, while hydrogen (H) and chlorine (Cl) typically form only one bond each.
Determine the total number of valence electrons available. Carbon has 4 valence electrons, each hydrogen has 1, and chlorine has 7, so total valence electrons = 4 + (3 × 1) + 7 = 14 electrons.
Arrange the atoms with carbon in the center bonded to three hydrogens and one chlorine atom, since carbon forms four bonds to satisfy its octet.
Distribute the valence electrons to form bonds: each bond (C-H or C-Cl) uses 2 electrons. After forming four single bonds, all valence electrons are accounted for, and carbon has no lone pairs.
Check for lone pairs: hydrogen atoms do not have lone pairs, chlorine typically has three lone pairs, and carbon has none in this structure, confirming the correct Lewis structure.
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