Multiple Choice
Which of the following shows the correct Lewis valence dot structure for a neutral oxygen atom?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following Lewis dot structures correctly represents the bonding between two chlorine atoms in a Cl₂ molecule?
A
Cl ⋅⋅⋅⋅ : Cl ⋅⋅⋅⋅
B
Cl : Cl
C
Cl ⋅⋅ Cl
D
Cl :⋅⋅: Cl
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that a Lewis dot structure represents valence electrons as dots around the atomic symbols, and shared pairs of electrons (bonds) as lines or pairs of dots between atoms.
Determine the number of valence electrons for each chlorine atom. Chlorine is in group 17, so each Cl atom has 7 valence electrons.
Since Cl₂ is a diatomic molecule with two chlorine atoms, they share one pair of electrons to form a single covalent bond, completing each atom's octet.
In the Lewis structure, this single bond is represented by either a pair of dots (two electrons) or a single line between the two Cl atoms, with the remaining valence electrons shown as lone pairs around each Cl.
Compare the given options to see which one correctly shows one shared pair of electrons (bond) between the two Cl atoms and three lone pairs on each atom, ensuring the octet rule is satisfied.
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