Question 1

Which of the following best describes resonance structures in polyatomic species?

Accepted Answer

They are Lewis Dot Structures showing the movement of only electrons, not atoms.

Question 2

In resonance structures, what is indicated by a double-sided arrow ($$\leftrightarrow) $$between two structures?

Accepted Answer

The structures are in equilibrium with each other.

Question 3

Which of the following is TRUE about resonance hybrids?

Accepted Answer

A resonance hybrid is a single structure that averages all major resonance forms.

Question 4

Given the carbonate ion ($$\mathrm{CO_3$^{2-}}$$), how many major resonance structures can be drawn?

Accepted Answer

3

Question 5

Which of the following statements about the resonance structures of $$\mathrm{PO_4$^{3-}} is $$correct?

Accepted Answer

All four oxygen atoms can participate in resonance by sharing a double bond with phosphorus.

Question 6

What is the main difference between resonance structures and isomers?

Accepted Answer

Resonance structures differ only in electron arrangement, while isomers differ in atom arrangement.

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct representation of resonance in the carbonate ion ($$\mathrm{CO_3$^{2-}}$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$[\mathrm{O=C-O^-} \leftrightarrow \mathrm{O^- -C=O} \leftrightarrow \mathrm{O-C=O^-}]$$

Question 8

Why is the resonance hybrid considered more accurate than any individual resonance structure?

Accepted Answer

It represents the actual distribution of electrons in the molecule.

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of resonance structures?

Accepted Answer

Atoms change positions between structures.

Question 10

A student draws two resonance structures for $$\mathrm{CO_3$^{2-}}$$ but forgets the third. What is the consequence?

Accepted Answer

The resonance hybrid will be incomplete and less accurate.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why resonance structures are important in chemistry?

Accepted Answer

They help predict the actual electronic structure and properties of molecules.

Question 12

In the phosphate ion ($$\mathrm{PO_4$^{3-}}$$), how many major resonance structures can be drawn?

Accepted Answer

4

Question 13

Which of the following is a common misconception about resonance structures?

Accepted Answer

Resonance structures are in rapid equilibrium with each other.

Question 14

Which symbol is used to indicate resonance between two structures?

Accepted Answer

$$\leftrightarrow$$

Question 15

If a molecule has resonance, what does this imply about its bonding?

Accepted Answer

The electrons are delocalized over multiple atoms.

Resonance Structures in Polyatomic Ions: Concepts and Examples

Study Guide - Practice Questions