Which of the following best describes the correct Lewis structure for $C_1{H}_4{O}_1$ (methanol)?

• A. A central oxygen atom single-bonded to two carbon atoms, each carbon atom single-bonded to two hydrogen atoms.
• B. A central oxygen atom double-bonded to carbon, with the carbon atom single-bonded to four hydrogen atoms.
• C. A central carbon atom single-bonded to three hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, with the oxygen atom also single-bonded to another hydrogen atom, and all atoms having complete octets or duets.
• D. A central carbon atom double-bonded to oxygen and single-bonded to four hydrogen atoms.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the molecular formula of methanol, which is CH4O, indicating one carbon, four hydrogens, and one oxygen atom.
2. Recall that carbon typically forms four bonds to complete its octet, oxygen typically forms two bonds to complete its octet, and hydrogen forms one bond (duet).
3. Consider the connectivity: carbon is usually the central atom in organic molecules, so place carbon in the center bonded to hydrogens and oxygen.
4. Attach three hydrogen atoms directly to the central carbon atom, fulfilling part of carbon's four bonds.
5. Attach the oxygen atom to the carbon with a single bond, then attach the remaining hydrogen atom to the oxygen, ensuring all atoms have complete octets or duets.