Chapter 8, Problem 8.168AP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The Lewis structure for ${\text{CO}}_{\text{4}}$ resembling the given arrangement, the possibility of the presence of the resonating structures of ${\text{CO}}_{\text{4}}$ with zero formal charge and the structure with all four oxygen atom bonded to carbon are to be identified.

Concept introduction: The Lewis symbols of the atoms indicate the total number of valence electrons surrounding the atom or the ions.

To determine: The Lewis structure for ${\text{CO}}_{\text{4}}$ resembling the given arrangement.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

To determine: The possibility of the presence of the resonating structures of ${\text{CO}}_{\text{4}}$ with zero formal charge.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

To determine: The possible structures of ${\text{CO}}_{\text{4}}$ with all four oxygen atom bonded to carbon.