Final answer:
The Lewis structure of C₂H₂O (acetic acid) consists of two carbon atoms bonded to each other with a triple bond, and each carbon atom bonded to an oxygen atom with a double bond. Each carbon atom also has one hydrogen atom bonded to it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lewis structure of C₂H₂O (acetic acid) can be determined by following the steps:
- Determine the total number of valence electrons in the molecule:
- Place the atoms in the molecule in a way that the least electronegative atom (carbon) is in the center.
- Connect the atoms using single bonds.
- Distribute the remaining valence electrons to complete the octets of the atoms. If there are insufficient electrons, form multiple bonds.
- Check if all atoms have complete octets, and adjust the placement of electrons if needed.
The Lewis structure of C₂H₂O shows two carbon atoms bonded to each other with a triple bond (C≡C), and each carbon atom bonded to an oxygen atom with a double bond (C=O). Each carbon atom also has one hydrogen atom bonded to it.