Valence Electrons and Formal Charge

The video tutorial explains how to draw the Lewis structure for the HSO3- ion. It begins by placing sulfur in the center, surrounded by three oxygens and one hydrogen. The total valence electrons are counted, and electrons are distributed to satisfy the octet rule. The video then discusses the formal charges and how to adjust them by forming a double bond to achieve a more stable structure. The final structure is shown with brackets and a negative charge to indicate the ion.

What is the position of sulfur in the HSO3- Lewis structure?

• Next to hydrogen

• Attached to hydrogen

• At the center

• On the outside

How many total valence electrons are there in the HSO3- Lewis structure?

• 26

• 24

• 28

• 30

What is the valence electron count for sulfur in the initial structure?

• 6

• 8

• 12

• 10

Why can sulfur hold more than 8 valence electrons?

• It is in period 2

• It is highly electronegative

• It is in period 3

• It is a metal

What is the formal charge on sulfur before adjusting the structure?

• +2

• -1

• 0

• +1

What change is made to reduce the formal charge on oxygen?

• Form a double bond

• Remove electrons

• Change the atom position

• Add more electrons

What is the formal charge on sulfur after forming a double bond?

• +2

• +1

• 0

• -1

Why is the final structure placed in brackets?

• It is a radical

• It is a negative ion

• It is a positive ion

• It is a neutral molecule