U6L3 - Post Flashcard - Molecular Structures

Front

What are resonance structures?

Back

Resonance structures are different ways of drawing the same molecule that show the delocalization of electrons. They help represent the actual structure of a molecule more accurately.

Front

Why are resonance structures used when drawing the nitrate ion?

Back

Equivalent structures can be used to represent the ion.

Front

What is a structural formula?

Back

A structural formula uses letter symbols and bonds to show the relative positions of atoms in a molecule.

Front

How do you count valence electrons for ions?

Back

For negatively charged ions, add more electrons than the neutral atom. For positively charged ions, subtract electrons.

Front

What is the significance of full octets in Lewis structures?

Back

Atoms strive for full octets to achieve stability; multiple bonds may be needed if atoms do not have full octets after placing all available electrons.

Front

What does a molecular formula indicate?

Back

A molecular formula tells you the type and number of each atom in a molecule.

Front

What is the octet rule?

Back

The octet rule states that atoms tend to bond in such a way that they have eight electrons in their valence shell, achieving a stable electron configuration.

Front

What are lone pairs in a Lewis structure?

Back

Lone pairs are pairs of valence electrons that are not involved in bonding and are located on an atom.

Front

What is the difference between a covalent bond and an ionic bond?

Back

A covalent bond involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, while an ionic bond involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.

Front

What is a polar covalent bond?

Back

A polar covalent bond is a type of bond where electrons are shared unequally between two atoms, resulting in a molecule with a slight electrical dipole moment.