Multiple Choice
Which of the following best represents the correct Lewis dot structure for the neutral compound NF_3?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following best represents the Lewis dot structure for the neutral compound CH4 (methane)?
A
A central C atom with four single bonds to four H atoms, each H atom having no lone pairs.
B
A central C atom with one triple bond to one H atom and three single bonds to three H atoms.
C
A central C atom with four lone pairs and no bonds to H atoms.
D
A central C atom with two double bonds to two H atoms, each H atom having two lone pairs.
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the Lewis dot structure represents the valence electrons of atoms and how they are shared or paired in bonds to satisfy the octet rule (or duet rule for hydrogen).
Determine the total number of valence electrons in CH4: Carbon (C) has 4 valence electrons, and each Hydrogen (H) has 1 valence electron, so total valence electrons = 4 + (4 × 1) = 8 electrons.
Recognize that carbon typically forms four covalent bonds to complete its octet, and hydrogen forms one single bond to complete its duet (2 electrons).
Construct the Lewis structure by placing carbon in the center and forming four single bonds to four hydrogen atoms, with no lone pairs on carbon or hydrogen atoms.
Verify that each hydrogen has 2 electrons (a single bond) and carbon has 8 electrons around it (four single bonds), satisfying the octet and duet rules.
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