Chapter 8.10, Problem 1PPB

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The resonance structures of thiocyanate ion ${\left(\text{NCS}\right)}^{-}$ with its formal charge are to be drawn and the resonance structures in order of increasing relative importance are to be listed.

Concept introduction:

For many molecules, it is impossible to explain all properties by a single Lewis structure. In such cases, more than one Lewis structures are drawn to explain the properties. Such structures of a compound are called resonating structures and the phenomenon is called resonance.

Due to their attraction towards electrons, the ions and the molecules acquire some charge which is called formal charge.

Formal charge is given by:

Total number of valence electrons in a free atom - total number of associated electrons.