Lewis structures

Front

What is a Lewis structure?

Back

A Lewis structure is a diagram that shows the bonding between atoms of a molecule and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist in the molecule.

Front

What does the octet rule state?

Back

The octet rule states that atoms tend to form compounds in ways that give them eight valence electrons, achieving a stable electron configuration.

Front

How many valence electrons does hydrogen need to be stable?

Back

Hydrogen needs 2 valence electrons to be stable.

Front

What is the significance of lone pairs in Lewis structures?

Back

Lone pairs represent pairs of valence electrons that are not involved in bonding and can affect the shape and reactivity of the molecule.

Front

What is the correct Lewis structure for NH3?

Back

The correct Lewis structure for NH3 shows nitrogen in the center with three hydrogen atoms bonded to it and one lone pair of electrons on nitrogen.

Front

How do you determine the total number of valence electrons in a molecule?

Back

To determine the total number of valence electrons, add the valence electrons of each atom in the molecule.

Front

What is a dot diagram?

Back

A dot diagram is a visual representation of the valence electrons of an atom, using dots to represent each electron.

Front

What is the correct Lewis structure for CH2O?

Back

The correct Lewis structure for CH2O has carbon in the center, double bonded to oxygen and single bonded to two hydrogen atoms.

Front

What is the role of double bonds in Lewis structures?

Back

Double bonds in Lewis structures indicate that two pairs of electrons are shared between two atoms, which can affect the molecule's geometry and stability.

Front

What happens if an atom does not follow the octet rule?

Back

Some atoms, like hydrogen and boron, do not follow the octet rule and can be stable with fewer than eight electrons.