Multiple Choice
In the Lewis structure for BeCl_2, what is the formal charge on the Be atom?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Formal Charge
Multiple Choice
Calculate the formal charges for each of the oxygen atoms within the nitrite ion, NO2–.
A
0, -1
B
+1, 0
C
-1, -1
D
+1, +1
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the number of valence electrons for a neutral oxygen atom, which is 6.
For oxygen atom A, count the number of electrons in lone pairs and bonds. Oxygen A has 4 electrons in lone pairs and 2 electrons in a double bond with nitrogen.
Calculate the formal charge for oxygen A using the formula: Formal Charge = Valence Electrons - (Lone Pair Electrons + 1/2 Bonding Electrons). Substitute the values: 6 - (4 + 2) = 0.
For oxygen atom B, count the number of electrons in lone pairs and bonds. Oxygen B has 6 electrons in lone pairs and 1 electron in a single bond with nitrogen.
Calculate the formal charge for oxygen B using the same formula: Formal Charge = Valence Electrons - (Lone Pair Electrons + 1/2 Bonding Electrons). Substitute the values: 6 - (6 + 1) = -1.
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