QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Which of the following is the correct Lewis structure for ammonia (NH3)?
Note: Hydrogen and nitrogen have one and five valence electrons respectively.
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this step by step, focusing on drawing the correct Lewis structure for ammonia (NH3).
Step 2:: Determine the total number of valence electrons
- Total valence electrons: $$5 + (3 \times 1) = 8$$ valence electrons
- Nitrogen (N) has 5 valence electrons - Hydrogen (H) has 1 valence electron
Step 3:: Arrange the atoms
- Place the nitrogen atom in the center - Arrange the three hydrogen atoms around the nitrogen atom
Step 4:: Connect atoms with single bonds
- This uses $$3 \times 2 = 6$$ electrons
- Draw a single bond between nitrogen and each hydrogen atom
Step 5:: Check remaining electrons
- Remaining electrons: $$8 - 6 = 2$$ electrons
- Total valence electrons: 8 - Electrons used in bonds: 6
Step 6:: Place remaining electrons as a lone pair
- Place the 2 remaining electrons as a lone pair on the nitrogen atom
Final Answer
The correct Lewis structure for ammonia (NH3) has: - Nitrogen at the center - Three single bonds to hydrogen atoms - One lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom The structure looks like a trigonal pyramidal arrangement with the lone pair at the top of the pyramid.
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