QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Which Lewis electron-dot diagram is correct for CO^2?
A. :O=C=O:
B. :O-C=O:
C. :O=C-O:
D. :O=CO:
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Answer
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Step 1::
The Lewis electron-dot structure for CO^2 should follow the octet rule, where each atom (C and O) is surrounded by 8 electrons. Since carbon is in the middle, it will share electrons with both oxygen atoms through double bonds.
Step 2::
Start by drawing the carbon atom with 4 points around it representing the 4 valence electrons. \begin{array}{cccc} \cdot & \cdot & \cdot & \cdot \ \text{C} & & & \end{array}
Step 3::
Next, add the oxygen atoms with 6 points around them representing their 6 valence electrons. \begin{array}{cccc} \cdot & \cdot & \cdot & \cdot \ \text{O} & - & \text{C} & - & \text{O} \ \cdot & \cdot & \cdot & \cdot \ \end{array}
Step 4::
Form double bonds between the carbon and each oxygen atom by moving 4 electrons from the oxygen atoms to the middle carbon atom. This will give each oxygen atom 8 electrons (fulfilling the octet rule) and the carbon atom 8 electrons as well. \begin{array}{cccc} \cdot & \cdot & & \cdot \ \text{O} & = & \text{C} & = \ \cdot & \cdot & & \cdot \ \end{array}
Final Answer
The correct Lewis electron-dot diagram for CO^2 is option C: :O=C-O:.
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