Chapter 8, Problem 73QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The resonance structures of ${\text{SO}}_3^{2-}$, which obey the octet rule and the structure that has zero formal charge on the central atom are to be represented.

Concept introduction:

The Lewis structure is a representation of bonding and non-bonding electron pairs present in the outermost shell of the atoms present in a molecule.

Dots are placed above and below as well as to the left and right of symbol.

Number of dots is important in Lewis dot symbol but not the order in which the dots are placed around the symbol.

In writing symbol pairing is not done until absolutely necessary.

For metals, the number of dots represents the number of electrons that are lost when the atom forms a cation.

For second period nonmetals, the number of unpaired dots is the number of bonds the atom can form.

Atomic ions can also be represented by dot symbols, by simply adding (for anions) and subtracting (for cations) the appropriate number of dots from Lewis dot symbol.

The octet rule states that every atom reacts to form bonds till its octet of electrons gets completely filled.

Formal charge is the charge on the atom present in the molecule.