Multiple Choice
What are the formal charges on the nitrogen atoms in NO2⁻ and NO3⁻?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Formal Charge
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Based on calculated formal charges, determine the overall charge (net charge) for the following compound.
A
–3
B
+4
C
+1
D
–1
E
+2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the compound in the image as borate ion, which consists of one boron (B) atom and three oxygen (O) atoms.
Recall the formula for calculating formal charge: Formal Charge = (Valence Electrons) - (Non-bonding Electrons) - (Bonding Electrons/2).
Calculate the formal charge for the boron atom: Boron has 3 valence electrons, 0 non-bonding electrons, and is involved in 3 bonds (6 bonding electrons).
Calculate the formal charge for each oxygen atom: Oxygen has 6 valence electrons, 6 non-bonding electrons, and is involved in 1 bond (2 bonding electrons).
Sum the formal charges of all atoms in the compound to determine the overall charge (net charge) of the compound.
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