Chapter 8, Problem 8.142AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The arrangement of atoms in hypochlorous acid as $\text{HOCl}$ or $\text{HClO}$ is to be predicted using formal charges.

Concept introduction: The formal charge on atom is calculated by the formula,

$FC=\text{valance}\text{electrons}-\left(\text{lone}\text{pair}\text{electrons}+\frac{1}{2}\text{shared}\text{electrons}\right)$

To predict: The arrangement of atoms in hypochlorous acid as $\text{HOCl}$ or $\text{HClO}$ using formal charges.