Multiple Choice
Which statement best describes the Lewis dot structure of a neutral water molecule (H2O)?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Neutral Compounds
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Which of the following represents the correct Lewis dot structure for a neutral chlorine atom (Cl)?
A
Cl with eight dots arranged around the symbol
B
Cl with five dots arranged around the symbol
C
Cl with two dots arranged around the symbol
D
Cl with seven dots arranged around the symbol
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the Lewis dot structure represents the valence electrons of an atom as dots around the element's symbol.
Determine the number of valence electrons for chlorine (Cl). Chlorine is in group 17 (or VIIA) of the periodic table, which means it has 7 valence electrons.
Since chlorine has 7 valence electrons, the Lewis dot structure should show 7 dots arranged around the symbol 'Cl'. These dots are usually placed one at a time on each of the four sides (top, right, bottom, left) before pairing up.
Verify that the structure is neutral by ensuring the number of dots equals the number of valence electrons for chlorine, which is 7, and no charges are indicated.
Conclude that the correct Lewis dot structure for a neutral chlorine atom is the one with seven dots arranged around the symbol 'Cl'.
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