Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the correct Lewis dot structure for the neutral compound H2CS (thioformaldehyde)?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of neutral SeBr2O?
A
Selenium (Se) is the central atom, bonded to three bromine (Br) atoms and no oxygen (O) atom, with two lone pairs on Se.
B
Oxygen (O) is the central atom, bonded to two selenium (Se) atoms and one bromine (Br) atom, with no lone pairs on O.
C
Bromine (Br) is the central atom, bonded to two selenium (Se) atoms and one oxygen (O) atom, with two lone pairs on Br.
D
Selenium (Se) is the central atom, bonded to two bromine (Br) atoms and one oxygen (O) atom, with one lone pair on Se.
Verified step by step guidance1
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 oxygen (O) and bromine (Br), so Se is likely the central atom.
Determine the number of valence electrons for each atom: Se has 6 valence electrons, each Br has 7, and O has 6. Sum these to find the total valence electrons available for bonding and lone pairs.
Arrange the atoms with Se in the center bonded to two Br atoms and one O atom. Connect these atoms with single bonds initially, using two electrons per bond.
Distribute the remaining valence electrons to satisfy the octet rule for the outer atoms (Br and O) first, placing lone pairs as needed. Then assign any leftover electrons as lone pairs on the central Se atom.
Check the formal charges on each atom to ensure the most stable Lewis structure, aiming for formal charges close to zero. Confirm that Se has one lone pair, bonded to two Br atoms and one O atom, matching the correct description.
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