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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of neutral SeF2O?
A
Selenium (Se) is the central atom, bonded to two fluorine (F) atoms and one oxygen (O) atom, with one lone pair on Se.
B
Fluorine (F) is the central atom, bonded to one selenium (Se) atom and two oxygen (O) atoms.
C
Oxygen (O) is the central atom, bonded to two selenium (Se) atoms and one fluorine (F) atom, with no lone pairs on O.
D
Selenium (Se) is the central atom, bonded to three fluorine (F) atoms, with no oxygen present.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the central atom by considering electronegativity and bonding capacity. Typically, the least electronegative atom that can form multiple bonds is the central atom. Selenium (Se) is less electronegative than fluorine (F) and oxygen (O), so Se is likely the central atom.
Count the total valence electrons for the molecule SeF2O. Selenium has 6 valence electrons, each fluorine has 7, and oxygen has 6. Sum these to find the total number of valence electrons available for bonding and lone pairs.
Arrange the atoms with Se in the center, bonded to two fluorine atoms and one oxygen atom. Draw single bonds initially between Se and each of these atoms, using 2 electrons per bond.
Distribute the remaining valence electrons to satisfy the octet rule for the outer atoms first (fluorine and oxygen), then place any leftover electrons as lone pairs on the central selenium atom.
Check the Lewis structure to ensure all atoms have a complete octet (or duet for hydrogen if present), and confirm that selenium has one lone pair, consistent with the correct description.