Chapter 8.1, Problem 1PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The Lewis dot structure of PH₃ needs to be drawn.

Concept introduction: Lewis structure is shown by each atom in the molecule using the chemical symbol with the electron. The bond is formed by the sharing of electron between the atoms and excess electrons are shown as lone pairs.

Answer to Problem 1PP

After sharing the electrons between $\text{Phosphorus}\left(\text{P}\right)$ and $\text{Hydrogen}\left(\text{H}\right)$ , the stable valence shell configuration of the compound can be obtained.

Explanation of Solution

Lewis structure of ${\text{PH}}_{\text{3}}$

First write the electron configuration for $\text{Phosphorus}\left(\text{P}\right)$ and $\text{Hydrogen}\left(\text{H}\right)$ :

  $\text{P}\to 1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}3p^3$

  $\text{H}\to 1s^1$

  $\text{Phosphorus}\left(\text{P}\right)$ and $\text{Hydrogen}\left(\text{H}\right)$ has $5$ electrons and $1$ electron in their outermost shell respectively.

For the stable valence shell configuration or stable structure, formation $\text{Phosphorus}\left(\text{P}\right)$ requires $3$ electrons and $\text{Hydrogen}\left(\text{H}\right)$ requires $1$ electron. There will be one lone pair of electron on P atom. The Lewis dot structure will be:

  

Conclusion

The stable valence shell configuration can be achieved by sharing the electrons between the atoms.