Multiple Choice
Which resonance structure is likely to contribute most to the correct structure of N_2O?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Resonance Structures
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Which statement is true about the resonance hybrid of a molecule?
A
It shows electrons localized in specific bonds only.
B
It represents the actual structure of the molecule, with delocalized electrons.
C
It violates the octet rule for all atoms involved.
D
It is identical to one of the individual resonance structures.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that resonance structures are different Lewis structures that represent the same molecule, differing only in the placement of electrons, not atoms.
Recognize that the resonance hybrid is a conceptual model that combines all valid resonance structures to represent the true electronic structure of the molecule.
Know that in the resonance hybrid, electrons are delocalized over multiple atoms or bonds, rather than being localized in one specific bond or location.
Recall that the resonance hybrid does not violate the octet rule; it respects the octet rule for atoms involved unless exceptions apply due to the nature of the molecule.
Conclude that the resonance hybrid is not identical to any single resonance structure but is a weighted average that better represents the actual distribution of electrons in the molecule.
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