Drawing resonance structure for SO42

In summary, there are six resonance structures for SO42-. However, the structure with single bonds is not considered as one of the possible resonance structures due to its unfavorable spread of formal charges over all four atoms. Although it theoretically exists, its high degree of charge separation makes it significantly less stable compared to the other structures and therefore contributes very little to the resonance hybrid.
  • #1
Sunwoo Bae
61
4
Homework Statement
Draw the important resonance forms for SO42-
Relevant Equations
none
I was told that there are six resonance structures for SO42-, as shown below.

1612005103934.png


I am wondering why this structure with single bonds is not one of the possible resonance.
I understand that it is unfavorable as the formal charges are spread out over all four atoms, but shouldn't is still be a part of the resonance, given that the total formal charge of the molecule adds up to 2- in total?

1612005230638.png


Thank you
 
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  • #2
Theoretically that is a possible resonance structure, but that degree of charge separation makes it much less stable than the other structures, so it contributes very little to the resonance hybrid.
 

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