Diazomethane Resonance: Lewis Structure Soln

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SUMMARY

The acceptable Lewis structure for Diazomethane is structure B, as confirmed by the discussion participants. Structures C and D are incorrect resonance forms. The reasoning provided highlights that nitrogen cannot have four bonds and a lone pair, which aligns with the octet rule. This conclusion is based on the electronegativity of nitrogen compared to carbon, emphasizing the stability of formal charges in resonance structures.

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  • Understanding of Lewis structures and resonance forms
  • Familiarity with the octet rule in chemistry
  • Knowledge of formal charge calculations
  • Basic concepts of electronegativity and its implications in molecular stability
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  • Learn about resonance structures and their significance in chemical bonding
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Homework Statement


Which is an acceptable Lewis structure for Diazomethane?

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution


The answer cannot be C or D, as both of these resonance structures are incorrect. I thought the answer was A, given that nitrogen is more electronegative than carbon, which would mean that a negative formal charge is more stable on nitrogen. This is not the case, the answer is actually B.
 

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Count the electrons around each nitrogen in A.
 
It has 4 bonds and 1 lone pair. I believe that I read somewhere that nitrogen cannot have 4 bonds and a lone pair. Is that correct?
 

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