Resonance Structures and VSEPR

In summary, the conversation discusses a question regarding which molecules can be described using three charge-minimized resonance structures. The suggestion is to use VSEPR or Google to determine the bonding structures of the molecules and work towards the final answer. The participant suggests that only one choice, SO32-, has three resonance structures with minimized formal charges.
  • #1
kayleech
15
0
Hi,
I'm having trouble figuring out which of the following molecules can be described using three charge-minimized resonance structures. Does anyone have any idea which molecules this would include?

a. SF4
b. SO3
c. SO32-
d. HSO4-
e. SO2+
 
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  • #2
Suggestion: Use VSEPR to find out their bonding structures, or type their names into Google to save time, from there you should be able to work towards the final answer
 
  • #3
I did that and I came up with SO32- being the only answer.

Is that correct or am I doing something wrong?
 
  • #4
If you are looking for one of your choices to have 3 resonance structures, it would be best to draw the Lewis structures for EACH one a) - e) There is only one (and its not
SO32-) that has 3 resonance structures and the formal charges would be minimized for each resonance of that choice.
 

1. What is the purpose of drawing resonance structures?

Resonance structures are used to represent the delocalization of electrons in a molecule. This helps to explain the stability and reactivity of the molecule.

2. How do you determine the most stable resonance structure?

The most stable resonance structure is the one with the least number of formal charges and the most electronegative atoms are typically given a negative formal charge.

3. How does VSEPR theory explain molecular geometry?

VSEPR (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) theory states that electron pairs in the valence shell of an atom repel each other and will arrange themselves in a way that minimizes repulsion. This leads to the prediction of molecular geometry based on the number of electron pairs around the central atom.

4. What is the difference between a Lewis structure and a resonance structure?

A Lewis structure is a representation of a molecule's valence electrons and the bonds between atoms. A resonance structure is one of the possible Lewis structures that can be drawn for a molecule when it has delocalized electrons.

5. Can a molecule have more than one resonance structure?

Yes, a molecule can have multiple resonance structures when it has delocalized electrons. These structures contribute to the overall stability and reactivity of the molecule.

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