Lewis dot structure
Creating Lewis dot structures involves a few simple rules that help visualize the
arrangement of electrons in molecules. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Count Total Valence Electrons:
Add up the total number of valence electrons for all atoms in the molecule.
For ions, add electrons for negative charges or subtract electrons for positive
charges.
2. Determine the Central Atom:
The central atom is usually the least electronegative atom (except hydrogen, which is
never central).
Elements like carbon or phosphorus are often central, while hydrogen and fluorine
are typically terminal (on the ends).
3. Draw Single Bonds Between Atoms:
Connect each atom to the central atom using single bonds (a pair of electrons per
bond).
Each bond represents 2 electrons.
4. Distribute Remaining Electrons as Lone Pairs:
Place lone pairs on terminal atoms first (like oxygen, nitrogen, or halogens) to satisfy
their octet (or duet for hydrogen).
If electrons are still left, place them on the central atom.
5. Check Octets (or Duets for H):
Ensure each atom (especially C, N, O, and F) has 8 electrons around it (or 2 for
hydrogen).
If the central atom lacks an octet, move lone pairs from surrounding atoms to form
double or triple bonds until the central atom has 8 electrons.
6. Consider Expanded Octets (if Needed):
Atoms from the third period and beyond (e.g., sulfur, phosphorus) can hold more
than 8 electrons due to available d-orbitals.
For example, sulfur in SF₆ has 12 electrons around it.
7. Account for Formal Charges (if Applicable):
Formal charge helps determine the best structure if multiple structures are possible.
Use:
The best Lewis structure minimizes formal charges and places negative charges on more
electronegative atoms.
Example Application:
Let’s apply these rules to CO₂:
..
1. Count Valence Electrons:
o Carbon has 4, and each oxygen has 6. Total = 4 + (6 * 2) = 16 electrons.
2. Choose Central Atom:
o Carbon is less electronegative, so it’s central.
3. Draw Single Bonds:
o Connect carbon to each oxygen with a single bond. (C—O—O)
4. Distribute Remaining Electrons:
o 16 total – 4 used in bonds = 12 electrons left.
o Place lone pairs on each oxygen to complete their octets.
5. Form Double Bonds (if Needed):
o The carbon atom lacks an octet, so convert lone pairs from each oxygen into a
double bond with carbon.
6. Verify Octets:
o Each oxygen and carbon has 8 electrons.
Compound Total number of Lewis Dot Electronegati Type of bond
Valence electrons Structure vity
H2O H = 1*2 = 2 .. H = 2.2 >1.8 – Ionic
O=6 H–O–H O = 3.44 0.4-1.8 –
..
Total = 8 3.44 – 2.2 = Polar
1.24 Covalent
<0.4 –
nonpolar
covalent
CH4
CO2
SO2
PCl3
C2H4
SF6
NF3
BF3
