Chapter 9, Problem 10STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for the formation of the resonance structures needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Resonance is a condition that arises when a molecule or ion may write to more than one valid Lewis structure. The two or more right Lewis structures reflect a single molecule, or ions are called the molecule or ion’s resonance structures.

Answer to Problem 10STP

Lewis dot diagrams usually cannot describe the true electronic structure of a molecule, resonance structures are used to represent the approximate true electronic structure.

Explanation of Solution

The structure given in the diagram shows the delocalization of electrons of ion. The individual structure cannot be seen in the real resonance-stabilized molecule. The true structure is a hybrid between the different resonance structures. The hybrid has net lower energy than each of the relevant structures which make it more convenient.

Conclusion

The position of the pairs of electrons is changed but the position of atoms never changes in the resonance structure.