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Multiple Choice
Which of the following Lewis dot structures correctly represents ethene (C2H4)?
A
Each carbon atom is connected by a single bond, and each carbon has three single bonds to hydrogen atoms.
B
Each carbon atom is connected by a double bond, and each carbon has three single bonds to hydrogen atoms.
C
Each carbon atom is connected by a triple bond, and each carbon has one single bond to a hydrogen atom.
D
Each carbon atom is connected by a double bond, and each carbon has two single bonds to hydrogen atoms.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall the molecular formula of ethene, which is C2H4, indicating two carbon atoms and four hydrogen atoms.
Determine the bonding requirements for carbon atoms: each carbon forms four bonds to satisfy the octet rule.
Analyze the given options by counting the bonds around each carbon atom: single bonds to hydrogens plus bonds between carbons must total four.
Recognize that a double bond between the two carbon atoms allows each carbon to form two additional single bonds with hydrogen atoms, satisfying the four-bond requirement.
Conclude that the correct Lewis structure for ethene has a double bond between the two carbons and two single bonds from each carbon to hydrogen atoms.