Finding the Right Lewis Structure: Formal Charge

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the optimal Lewis structure by analyzing formal charges (FC) in molecular diagrams. Two structures were compared: one with a formal charge distribution of 0:1:-1:1:1 and another with 0:0:0:0:2. It is established that minimizing the overall formal charge is preferable, but maintaining a complete octet for all atoms is crucial. The consensus is that a balance between minimal formal charge and complete octet is essential for accurate Lewis structures.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lewis structures
  • Knowledge of formal charge calculation
  • Familiarity with octet rule
  • Basic concepts of molecular geometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of formal charge in molecular structures
  • Study examples of Lewis structures with varying formal charges
  • Learn about resonance structures and their impact on stability
  • Explore molecular geometry and its relation to Lewis structures
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone involved in molecular modeling or structural analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Dell
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with lewis structures, if i come to 2 separate structures that both seem right, and i want to know which is right, and i check the formal charge, and get:
for one diagram

0:1:-1:1:1

and for the other
0:0:0:0:2

which is better, i guess what I am trying to ask is, is it preferable to have a minimal FC overall, but spread over all the atoms, or as many atoms as close to zero as i can??
 
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It is preferable to have a complete octet around everything and let the FC chips fall where they may...
 
that i know, but if i have a complete octet for all the atoms but can either spread the FC between them or have all the FC on one, what is better
 
Give us your example. I can't think of an example where that would be the case off the top of my head...
 

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