Multiple Choice
Determine the Lewis Dot Structure for the following compound:SOCl2
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10. Chemical Bonding
Lewis Dot Structures: Exceptions (Simplified)
Multiple Choice
Draw the Lewis Dot Structure for POCl3.
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Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule POCl3. Phosphorus (P) is typically the central atom because it can form multiple bonds.
Determine the total number of valence electrons available. Phosphorus has 5 valence electrons, oxygen has 6, and each chlorine has 7. Therefore, the total is 5 + 6 + (3 * 7) = 32 valence electrons.
Place the central atom, phosphorus, in the center and arrange the other atoms (oxygen and three chlorines) around it.
Connect each surrounding atom to the central phosphorus atom using single bonds initially. This uses up 8 electrons (4 bonds * 2 electrons per bond).
Distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule for each atom, starting with the outer atoms (oxygen and chlorines) and then the central atom. Adjust bonds if necessary to ensure all atoms have complete octets.
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