Multiple Choice
In a neutral compound, how many electron pairs does a carbon atom typically share to complete its valence shell?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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In the Lewis dot structure of neutral carbon monoxide (CO), how many electrons are involved in bonding between the carbon and oxygen atoms?
A
2
B
8
C
4
D
6
Verified step by step guidance1
Determine the total number of valence electrons available for bonding in the CO molecule. Carbon has 4 valence electrons, and oxygen has 6 valence electrons, so together they contribute $4 + 6 = 10$ valence electrons.
Draw a basic Lewis structure by connecting the carbon and oxygen atoms with a single bond, which uses 2 electrons for bonding.
Distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule for both atoms, adding lone pairs and multiple bonds as needed. Remember that carbon and oxygen can share electrons through double or triple bonds.
Count the total number of electrons shared (bonding electrons) between carbon and oxygen. Each bond (single, double, or triple) corresponds to 2 bonding electrons, so a triple bond corresponds to 6 bonding electrons.
Confirm that the Lewis structure satisfies the octet rule for both atoms and that the total number of electrons used matches the total valence electrons (10). The number of bonding electrons is the number involved in the bonds between carbon and oxygen.
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