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Multiple Choice
Draw the Lewis structure of the molecule
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1
Identify the total number of valence electrons in the molecule HNO3. Hydrogen has 1, nitrogen has 5, and each oxygen has 6, giving a total of 24 valence electrons.
Determine the central atom, which is typically the least electronegative atom that isn't hydrogen. In HNO3, nitrogen is the central atom.
Connect the atoms with single bonds initially: connect nitrogen to each oxygen and one oxygen to hydrogen.
Distribute the remaining valence electrons to satisfy the octet rule for each atom, starting with the outer atoms (oxygen) and then the central atom (nitrogen).
Consider resonance structures and formal charges to find the most stable Lewis structure. The structure should minimize formal charges and have the negative charge on the most electronegative atom, which is oxygen in this case.