Lewis structures and molecular geometry

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

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 based on their group number in the periodic table.

Front

What is the octet rule?

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

What is a double bond?

Back

A double bond is a type of chemical bond where two pairs of electrons are shared between two atoms.

Front

How many electrons are shared in a single bond?

Back

In a single bond, one pair of electrons (2 electrons) is shared between two atoms.

Front

What is the molecular geometry of methane (CH4)?

Back

The molecular geometry of methane (CH4) is tetrahedral.

Front

What is the significance of lone pairs in Lewis structures?

Back

Lone pairs are pairs of valence electrons that are not shared with another atom and can affect the shape and polarity of the molecule.

Front

How does the presence of lone pairs affect molecular geometry?

Back

Lone pairs take up more space than bonding pairs, which can distort the angles between bonds and change the molecular geometry.

Front

What is the Lewis structure for carbon dioxide (CO2)?

Back

The Lewis structure for carbon dioxide shows a carbon atom double bonded to two oxygen atoms, with each oxygen having two lone pairs.

Front

What is the Lewis structure for ammonia (NH3)?

Back

The Lewis structure for ammonia shows a nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms, with one lone pair on the nitrogen.