Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of the neutral compound ClF_5?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of neutral CoCl2, including the bonding and arrangement of atoms?
A
Co is at the center with one single bond and one triple bond to Cl atoms; each Cl has one lone pair.
B
Co is at the center with double bonds to each Cl atom; each Cl has two lone pairs; Co has two lone pairs.
C
Co is at the center with two single bonds to Cl atoms; each Cl has three lone pairs; Co has no lone pairs.
D
Cl atoms are bonded to each other, and Co is attached to one Cl atom; each Cl has four lone pairs.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom and the surrounding atoms in CoCl2. Typically, the metal (Co) is the central atom, and the chlorine atoms are bonded to it.
Determine the typical bonding behavior of cobalt (Co) and chlorine (Cl). Chlorine usually forms one single bond and has three lone pairs to complete its octet, while cobalt, as a transition metal, often forms single bonds with halogens in simple compounds.
Draw the Lewis dot structure by placing Co in the center and connecting it to two Cl atoms with single bonds. Each Cl atom should have three lone pairs to complete its octet.
Check the total number of valence electrons: Co contributes its valence electrons, and each Cl contributes seven valence electrons. Ensure the total number of electrons in the structure matches this count.
Verify that the structure satisfies the octet rule for the Cl atoms and that Co has no lone pairs, consistent with the typical bonding in CoCl2.
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