Multiple Choice
In a Lewis dot structure, what do the dots around an element's symbol represent?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Symbols
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Which of the following represents the correct Lewis dot symbol for the arsenide ion, As^{3-}?
A
As with 5 dots and a 3- charge
B
As with 3 dots and a 3- charge
C
As with 8 dots and no charge
D
As with 8 dots and a 3- charge
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the Lewis dot symbol represents the valence electrons of an atom or ion as dots around the element's symbol.
Determine the number of valence electrons for a neutral arsenic (As) atom. Arsenic is in group 15, so it has 5 valence electrons.
Since the arsenide ion is As^{3-}, it has gained 3 extra electrons, increasing the total valence electrons to 5 + 3 = 8.
Draw the Lewis dot symbol by placing 8 dots around the symbol 'As' to represent these valence electrons.
Include the 3- charge outside the brackets to indicate the ion's charge, completing the correct Lewis dot symbol for As^{3-}.
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