Textbook Question
The phosphonium ion, PH⁺₄ is formed by reaction of phosphine, PH₃ , with an acid. d. Explain why the ion has a +1 charge.
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10. Chemical Bonding
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds (Simplified)
Multiple Choice
In drawing a Lewis dot structure for a neutral compound, what is meant by a terminal atom?
A
Any atom that has a formal charge of
B
An atom that must always have an expanded octet (more than 8 electrons)
C
The central atom that is bonded to two or more atoms
D
An atom connected to only one other atom in the structure (an end atom, not in the center)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that in a Lewis dot structure, atoms are represented by their chemical symbols surrounded by dots that represent valence electrons.
Recognize that the central atom is typically the one bonded to two or more other atoms and is usually placed in the center of the structure.
Define a terminal atom as an atom that is bonded to only one other atom in the molecule, meaning it is located at the end of a chain or branch in the structure.
Note that terminal atoms are often hydrogen atoms or halogens, which usually form only one bond and do not expand their octet.
Conclude that the terminal atom is not the central atom and is connected to the rest of the molecule through a single bond, making it an 'end atom' in the Lewis structure.
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