Question

Create a checklist that can be used to determine if a Lewis structure for a molecule is correct. Two items from the Information section are included below as a start.

a) H must be surrounded by two electrons - a single bond.

b) C, N, O, and F must be surrounded by eight electrons (the octet rule).

Answer 1

To determine if a Lewis structure for a molecule is correct, use a checklist: arrange atoms, count valence electrons, place bonding pairs, complete octets, and form double or triple bonds if necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine if a Lewis structure for a molecule is correct, you can use the following checklist:

1. Arrange the atoms in the correct order, with the least electronegative element usually being the central atom.
2. Count the total number of valence electrons in the molecule or ion.
3. Place a bonding pair of electrons between each pair of adjacent atoms to give a single bond.
4. Distribute the remaining electrons to complete the octet of each atom, starting with the terminal atoms.
5. If the central atom does not have an octet, form double or triple bonds with terminal atoms to achieve an octet.

For example, let's consider the Lewis structure for water (H2O).

1. The central atom is oxygen (O).
2. There are 8 valence electrons (2 from each hydrogen and 6 from oxygen).
3. A bonding pair of electrons is placed between each hydrogen and oxygen atom.
4. The remaining 2 electrons are placed on the oxygen atom as lone pairs.
5. The oxygen atom now has an octet, so the Lewis structure is complete.

Following this checklist will help you determine if a Lewis structure is correct.