Resonant Structure of Nitrate Ion in AgNO3: Draw a Possible Solution

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around drawing resonant structures of the nitrate ion (NO3-) within the context of the compound silver nitrate (AgNO3). Participants explore the characteristics of resonant structures, including the implications of charge localization and the correct representation of valence electrons.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a resonant structure specifically for the nitrate ion, emphasizing that the structure should not depend on the counterion (Ag+).
  • Another participant notes the importance of having the correct number of valence electrons for nitrogen in the nitrate ion, indicating a mistake in their initial diagram.
  • There is a discussion about the nature of charge in resonant structures, with one participant asserting that while individual structures have localized charges, the rapid switching between them results in an observed delocalized charge.
  • A participant questions whether all possible Lewis dot diagrams for nitrate ions should be included when drawing resonant structures, suggesting a need for clarity on the number of bonds present.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between the nitrate ion's structure and its counterion, as well as the nature of charge in resonant structures. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of how to represent the resonant structures accurately.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about charge localization and delocalization, as well as the correct representation of valence electrons in the context of resonant structures.

temaire
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Homework Statement


Draw at least one resonant structure of the nitrate ion in AgNO_{3}.



The Attempt at a Solution


Is this a possible resonant structure of the nitrate ion?

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You want a Lewis Dot Structure of AgNO3, not just NO3-.
 
I don't think so - question asks for structure of nitrate ion, and in general structure of nitrate ion doesn't depend on the counterion.

temaire: resonant structure should have localized charge. How many valence electrons on N?

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methods
 
I think I see where I went wrong. My diagram has 12 valence electrons for N, while I'm supposed to have only 8. But how do resonant structures have localized charges? Shouldn't they have delocalized charges?
 
No, delocalized charge is effect of switching between resonant strutures. Charge is localized in any individual structure, but as molecule switches between them very fast, what we observe is charge that is delocalized.

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methods
 
So, if I was asked to come up with a resonant structure for the nitrate ion, I would have to include all of the possible lewis dot diagrams for nitrate ions with a certain number of single or double bonds?
 
Yes, indeed.
 

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