Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct Lewis dot structure for the azide ion (N₃⁻)?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Lewis Dot Structures: Ions
Multiple Choice
In the Lewis dot structure of the ion BCl_3, how many lone pairs are present on the central boron atom?
A
3
B
0
C
1
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule BCl_3, which is boron (B).
Determine the number of valence electrons for boron. Boron is in group 13, so it has 3 valence electrons.
Recognize that in BCl_3, boron forms three single covalent bonds with three chlorine atoms, each bond using one of boron's valence electrons.
Since all three valence electrons of boron are used in bonding, there are no remaining electrons to form lone pairs on the boron atom.
Conclude that the number of lone pairs on the central boron atom in BCl_3 is zero.
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