Chapter 1, Problem 1.7P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Lewis structure for ${\text{HCO}}_{\text{2}}{}^{\text{-}}$ ion is to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

Lewis structures involve only valence electrons. When drawing a Lewis structure, the first step is to calculate the total number of valence electrons. If the species has a negative charge, the number of valence electrons increases by one, and it decreases by one if the species bears a positive charge. The skeleton of the molecule is drawn using only single bonds to hold the atoms together. The remaining electrons are drawn as lone pairs starting with the outer atoms. The octet for each atom except hydrogen is achieved. Double and triple bonds are created if required to complete the octets.