Multiple Choice
In the structure of PO4^3- with three single bonds and one double bond, what is the formal charge of the phosphorus (P) atom?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Formal Charge
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
When O is the central atom of HCNO, what is the formal charge on the central O atom?
A
+2
B
-1
C
+1
D
0
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the number of valence electrons for oxygen. Oxygen is in group 16 of the periodic table, so it has 6 valence electrons.
Determine the number of electrons oxygen 'owns' in the molecule. Count all the non-bonding electrons (lone pairs) and half of the bonding electrons (shared in covalent bonds).
Calculate the formal charge using the formula: \( \text{Formal Charge} = \text{Valence Electrons} - \text{Non-bonding Electrons} - \frac{1}{2} \times \text{Bonding Electrons} \).
Apply the formula to the oxygen atom in HCNO. Consider the Lewis structure to identify the number of non-bonding and bonding electrons associated with the oxygen atom.
Evaluate the result from the calculation to determine the formal charge on the central oxygen atom.
Related Videos
Related Practice
