Which of the following statements correctly describes the Lewis dot structure of ethane (C2H6)?

• A. Each carbon atom forms four single bonds: three with hydrogen atoms and one with the other carbon atom.
• B. Each carbon atom forms a double bond with the other carbon atom and two single bonds with hydrogen atoms.
• C. Each carbon atom forms three single bonds: two with hydrogen atoms and one with the other carbon atom.
• D. Each carbon atom forms a triple bond with the other carbon atom and one single bond with a hydrogen atom.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the Lewis dot structure represents the valence electrons of atoms and how they are shared or bonded in a molecule.
2. Identify the number of valence electrons for carbon (4) and hydrogen (1), and remember that carbon typically forms four bonds to complete its octet.
3. Consider the molecular formula of ethane, C2H6, which indicates two carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms.
4. Determine the bonding pattern: each carbon atom needs to form enough bonds to satisfy the octet rule, and hydrogens form only one bond each.
5. Conclude that each carbon atom forms four single bonds: three with hydrogen atoms and one with the other carbon atom, resulting in a single C–C bond and six C–H bonds total.