QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Draw the Lewis structure of methane, $\mathrm{CH}_{4}$, which is the major component of natural gas.
Select the correct answer below:
* :H:
$: \mathrm{H}-\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{H}:$
$: \mathrm{H}:$
$H-H-C-H-H$
$\mathrm{H}$
$\mathrm{H}-\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{H}$
H
$\mathrm{H}-\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{H}$
H
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this step-by-step using proper Lewis structure drawing rules:
Step 2:: Determine the central atom
- Carbon (C) is the central atom in methane ($$\mathrm{CH}_{4}$$)
- Carbon has 4 valence electrons and needs to form 4 bonds
Step 3:: Arrange hydrogen atoms around carbon
- Carbon will form single bonds with 4 hydrogen atoms - Each hydrogen contributes 1 electron to the bond
Step 4:: Draw the Lewis structure
\mathrm{H} \mathrm{H}
- Place carbon in the center - Attach 4 hydrogen atoms, one to each side of carbon - Show single bonds between carbon and hydrogen - Ensure each atom achieves a full valence shell The correct Lewis structure is:
Final Answer
The correct Lewis structure for methane (\mathrm{CH}_{4}) is \mathrm{H}-\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{H} with hydrogens arranged symmetrically around the central carbon atom, forming a tetrahedral geometry.
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