Got stuck on molecular structure

In summary, the molecules SO2 and XeO4 both involve double bonds between their central atoms and oxygen. However, while one oxygen is bonded through a double bond in SO2, both oxygens are bonded through double bonds in XeO4. Despite this, neither sulfur nor xenon extend their octet in these compounds, and the distinction between double bonded and dative bonded oxygens is purely fictive. This is due to the complex nature of bonding in these compounds, which can be further explored in the book "Bonding in Complex Molecules" available at http://eu.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0471972428,descCd-tableOfContents.html. Additionally, the concept of
  • #1
asdff529
38
0
The S molecule of SO2 forms a double bond with one O and dative covalent bond with another O
Meanwhile,XeO4 is a molecule which Xe forms a double bond with each O
I have a question here
Why doesn't that S forms 2 double bonds with O to extend its octet structure?
Similarly,why doesn't that Xe form 4 dative covalent bond with O to maintain its octet structure?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Neither sulfur nor xenon extend their octet in these compounds and a distinction between double bonded and dative bonded oxygens is purely fictive.
 
  • #3
DrDu said:
Neither sulfur nor xenon extend their octet in these compounds and a distinction between double bonded and dative bonded oxygens is purely fictive.

why do u say that "Neither sulfur nor xenon extend their octet in these compounds"
if i draw the electron diagram of Xe,i count there should be 16 outermost electrons around Xe?
 
  • #6
but can i explain like this:
since electrons are indistinguishable,and they all move randomly around the atoms
so it is indistinguishable whether it is dative or pure covalent?
 

What is molecular structure?

Molecular structure refers to the arrangement and organization of atoms within a molecule. It includes information about the types of atoms present, the bonds between them, and the overall shape of the molecule.

Why is it important to understand molecular structure?

Molecular structure is crucial in understanding the properties and behavior of substances. It affects the physical, chemical, and biological properties of a molecule, which in turn can impact its function and potential applications.

How do scientists determine molecular structure?

Scientists use various techniques such as X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and computational methods to determine the molecular structure of a substance. These techniques provide information about the 3D arrangement of atoms within a molecule.

What is the relationship between molecular structure and function?

The function of a molecule is directly related to its structure. The specific arrangement of atoms within a molecule determines its chemical and physical properties, which ultimately determine its function in a biological or chemical system.

Can molecular structure be changed?

Yes, molecular structure can be changed through chemical reactions or physical processes such as heating or cooling. Altering the structure of a molecule can result in changes to its properties and potentially its function.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
565
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
20
Views
23K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
0
Views
283
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
8K
Replies
1
Views
3K
Back
Top