Chapter 1.3, Problem 3LTS

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The Lewis structure of the small given compound has to be found by using their Lewis dot structures of involving atoms and by following the octet rule.

Concept introduction: Lewis dot structures are also called electron dot structures. The diagrams are named after Gilbert N. Lewis, who described them in his 1916 article entitled The Atom and the Molecule.

The number of electrons present in the outermost shell of an atom that participate in forming chemical bonds with other atoms is called valence electrons.

Each group present in the periodic table has specific common valence electrons.  Therefore, the position of the atom in the periodic table should be known for drawing the Lewis dot structures.

The Lewis structure of small compounds can be drawn by combining the Lewis dot structures of the atoms involved in the formation of that compound.

In order to achieve complete noble gas configuration, octet rule is followed to find bonding nature of atoms.  Octet means 8 electrons in their valence shells.  The compounds which obey the octet rule are called stable compounds.

To find: Draw the Lewis structure of CH₂O