Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes how to draw a Lewis structure for a neutral compound?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following best represents the correct Lewis dot structure for a neutral O_2 molecule?
A
:O::O:
B
O=O with two lone pairs on each oxygen atom
C
O≡O with one lone pair on each oxygen atom
D
:Ö::Ö:
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 a molecule.
Determine the total number of valence electrons for the O_2 molecule. Each oxygen atom has 6 valence electrons, so total electrons = 6 × 2 = 12.
Draw a skeleton structure with two oxygen atoms connected by a bond. Start by placing a single bond (2 electrons) between the oxygens.
Distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule for each oxygen atom. Try different bond orders (single, double, triple) and assign lone pairs accordingly.
Identify the structure where both oxygen atoms have a full octet and the total number of electrons equals 12. This will be the correct Lewis structure, typically a double bond (O=O) with two lone pairs on each oxygen.
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