Valence Electrons and Lewis Structures

Dr. B explains how to draw the Lewis structure for SeF4. Selenium (Se) has six valence electrons, and each of the four fluorine (F) atoms has seven, totaling 34 valence electrons. Se is placed in the center with F atoms around it. Two electrons are placed between each atom to form bonds, using up 32 electrons. The remaining two electrons are placed on the central Se atom. The formal charges are checked, confirming the structure as optimal with zero charges on all atoms.

How many valence electrons does Selenium have in the SeF4 molecule?

• 4

• 7

• 6

• 8

What is the total number of valence electrons in SeF4?

• 32

• 30

• 28

• 34

Where is Selenium placed in the Lewis structure of SeF4?

• On the side

• At the bottom

• In the center

• At the top

How many electrons are initially placed between each Selenium and Fluorine atom to form bonds?

• 4

• 3

• 2

• 1

What allows Selenium to hold more than 8 electrons in its valence shell?

• It is in period 3

• It is in period 2

• It is a metal

• It is a noble gas

What is the formal charge on each atom in the finalized Lewis structure of SeF4?

• +1

• +2

• -1

• 0