Resonance Structures of Carbon Monoxide

The video tutorial explains how to draw resonance structures for carbon monoxide (CO) in a general chemistry context. It begins with drawing the Lewis structure, considering valence electrons and bonds. The tutorial then discusses formal charges and the importance of having zero formal charges, especially on more electronegative elements like oxygen. Alternative resonance structures are explored, highlighting their impact on formal charges and octet completion. The video concludes by discussing the experimental structure of CO, which is an average of the resonance structures, and provides a link for further reading.

What is the total number of valence electrons in carbon monoxide?

• 14

• 12

• 10

• 8

In the triple bond Lewis structure of CO, what is the formal charge on carbon?

• -2

• 0

• -1

• +1

Why is the triple bond Lewis structure not ideal in terms of formal charges?

• Oxygen has a negative formal charge.

• Both atoms have a formal charge of zero.

• Carbon has a negative formal charge and oxygen has a positive formal charge.

• Carbon has a positive formal charge.

What is the formal charge on both carbon and oxygen in the double bond resonance structure?

• +2

• -1

• 0

• +1

In the double bond resonance structure, how many valence electrons does carbon have?

• 4

• 10

• 6

• 8

What is the formal charge on oxygen in the single bond resonance structure?

• +1

• 0

• -1

• -2

In the single bond resonance structure, how many valence electrons does carbon have?

• 8

• 2

• 4

• 6

What percentage does the triple bond structure contribute to the experimental structure of CO?

• 40%

• 10%

• 50%

• 60%

Which resonance structure contributes the least to the experimental structure of CO?

• Double bond structure

• Single bond structure

• Triple bond structure

• None of the above

What is the main takeaway regarding the resonance structures of CO in a general chemistry class?

• Only the single bond structure is important.

• Only the triple bond structure is important.

• All resonance structures are equally important.

• The triple bond structure is most emphasized, but other structures exist.