Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct number of valence electrons for the neutral compound CH4, and which Lewis structure represents it?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
The Lewis structure of N2H2 shows ________.
A
a triple bond between the two nitrogen atoms
B
single bonds only between all atoms
C
a double bond between the two nitrogen atoms
D
a double bond between a nitrogen and a hydrogen atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the Lewis structure represents the arrangement of valence electrons among atoms in a molecule, showing bonds and lone pairs.
Determine the total number of valence electrons: Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons and hydrogen has 1. For N2H2, total valence electrons = 2 × 5 (for N) + 2 × 1 (for H) = 12 electrons.
Arrange the atoms with the two nitrogen atoms bonded together and each nitrogen bonded to one hydrogen atom, as hydrogens can only form one bond.
Distribute electrons to satisfy the octet rule for nitrogen atoms and the duet rule for hydrogen atoms, starting with single bonds and then adding multiple bonds if needed to complete octets.
Check the bond order between the two nitrogen atoms: after placing single bonds and lone pairs, you will find that a double bond between the nitrogen atoms satisfies the octet rule and uses all valence electrons correctly.
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