Textbook Question
How many electrons does an atom of each of the following elements need to gain to achieve a noble gas configuration? By gaining that many electrons, which noble gas configuration is achieved?
(d) Chlorine
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1. A Review of General Chemistry
Octet Rule
Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules violates the octet rule?
A
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in each molecule and determine its group number to know the number of valence electrons it has. For example, B in BF\_3 is in group 13, N in NH\_3 is in group 15, C in CH\_4 is in group 14, and O in H\_2O is in group 16.
Draw the Lewis structure for each molecule by placing the central atom in the center and surrounding it with the bonded atoms. Then, distribute electrons to satisfy bonding and lone pairs.
Count the total number of electrons around the central atom in each molecule, including bonding and lone pairs, to check if it follows the octet rule (8 electrons around the central atom).
Recall that the octet rule can be violated if the central atom has fewer than 8 electrons (incomplete octet) or more than 8 electrons (expanded octet).
Analyze BF\_3 specifically: Boron often forms compounds where it has only 6 electrons around it, which is an incomplete octet, thus violating the octet rule. Confirm that the other molecules (NH\_3, CH\_4, H\_2O) have complete octets around their central atoms.
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