Which of the following statements correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of the Cl\(_3^-\) ion?

• A. It is made up of three chlorine atoms, each with a single bond to the others and no formal charge.
• B. It contains three chlorine atoms connected in a linear arrangement, with one central atom bearing a negative charge and two lone pairs.
• C. It has two chlorine atoms bonded to a central chlorine atom, with the negative charge distributed equally among all atoms.
• D. It consists of three chlorine atoms arranged in a triangle, each sharing one electron with the others and no lone pairs.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the species and its components. The Cl\(_3^-\) ion consists of three chlorine atoms and an overall negative charge of -1.
2. Step 2: Determine the total number of valence electrons. Each chlorine atom has 7 valence electrons, so for three atoms, that's \$3 \times 7 = 21$ electrons. Add 1 extra electron for the negative charge, giving a total of 22 valence electrons.
3. Step 3: Consider the possible bonding arrangements. Since chlorine typically forms one single bond and prefers to complete its octet with lone pairs, think about how the atoms can be connected to satisfy the octet rule and accommodate the extra electron.
4. Step 4: Analyze the geometry and formal charges. The most stable Lewis structure will minimize formal charges and place the negative charge on the atom best able to accommodate it (usually the central atom). The linear arrangement with a central chlorine atom bearing the negative charge and two lone pairs on it fits this description.
5. Step 5: Compare the given statements to the Lewis structure principles. The correct description should mention three chlorine atoms connected linearly, with the central atom carrying the negative charge and having lone pairs, consistent with the octet rule and formal charge distribution.