Multiple Choice
Which of the following correctly describes the resonance structures of the sulfur dioxide (SO_2) molecule?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Resonance Structures
Multiple Choice
Determine the average charge of the oxygen atoms within the chlorite ion, ClO2–.
A
+1/2
B
-1/2
C
+1
D
-1
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the overall charge of the chlorite ion, which is ClO₂⁻. This means the total charge of the ion is -1.
Recognize that the chlorite ion consists of one chlorine atom and two oxygen atoms.
Assign oxidation states based on common rules: typically, oxygen has an oxidation state of -2, and the sum of oxidation states in a polyatomic ion equals the ion's charge.
Let the oxidation state of chlorine be x. Set up the equation: x + 2(-2) = -1, where -2 is the oxidation state of each oxygen atom.
Solve for x to find the oxidation state of chlorine, then calculate the average charge of the oxygen atoms by considering the total charge and the oxidation state of chlorine.
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