Question

In resonance structures, the valence electrons are redistributed among the atoms while continuing to satisfy the octet rule. Choose a resonance structure for:

a) Oxygen molecule (O_2)
b) Methane (CH_4)
c) Water molecule (H_2O)
d) Nitrogen molecule (N2)

Answer 1

Resonance structures are different representations of a molecule or ion that can be used to describe the delocalization of electrons. Oxygen (O2) and methane (CH4) have resonance structures, while water (H2O) and nitrogen (N2) do not.

Step-by-step explanation:

Resonance structures are different representations of a molecule or ion that can be used to describe the delocalization of electrons. In the case of oxygen (O2), there are two resonance structures where the double bond can be shifted between the two oxygen atoms. Similarly, for methane (CH4), there is only one resonance structure that shows the delocalization of the electrons in the C-H bonds. Water molecule (H2O) and nitrogen molecule (N2) do not exhibit resonance because their Lewis structures can be represented by a single structure that follows the octet rule.