Chapter 16, Problem 16.8P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The possible resonance structures for the given cation and the structure that makes the largest contribution to the resonance hybrid is to be drawn.

Concept introduction: Most of the organic structures cannot be represented using single Lewis structure. Therefore, there exists more than one Lewis structure for representing a molecule or ion. These structures are known as resonance structures. These are the hypothetical structures and do not specify the exact structure. These resonance structure combine together to give resonance hybrid that is lower in energy and is the most stable structure.

The delocalization of electrons results in the formation resonance structure.

The stability of resonance structures depends upon the following rules:

• The stability of resonance structure is more if it possesses more bonds and fewer charges.

• Resonance structure will be more stable if atoms of the resonance structure have complete octet.

• The stability of resonance structure is more if negative charge is on more electronegative atom