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Lewis Structures (Lewis Representation of Simple Molecules)

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Estimated time: 5 minutes
Maharashtra State Board: Class 12

Key Points: Lewis Structures (Lewis Representation of Simple Molecules)

Lewis structures use dots (lone pairs) and dashes (bonds) to represent all valence electrons in a molecule. Key examples:

Molecule/Ion Description
H₂ H:H — single bond, no lone pairs
O₂ :O::O: — double bond with lone pairs on each O
O₃ One double and one single bond; resonance hybrid
NF₃ N with one lone pair; 3 N−F single bonds
CO₃²⁻ Resonance among 3 equivalent structures; charge = −2
HNO₃ N forms double bond with one O; OH and another O attached

Steps to draw Lewis structure:

  1. Count total valence electrons (add electrons for negative charge; subtract for positive)
  2. Arrange atoms — least electronegative atom is usually in the centre
  3. Connect atoms with single bonds
  4. Complete octets on outer atoms first, then on central atom
  5. If central atom has deficit, form multiple bonds

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Steps to write Lewis dot structure [00:12:32]
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