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Multiple Choice
Determine the Lewis Dot Structure for the following compound:SOCl2
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Verified step by step guidance
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Identify the total number of valence electrons in the compound SOCl2. Sulfur (S) has 6 valence electrons, oxygen (O) has 6, and each chlorine (Cl) has 7. Therefore, the total is 6 (S) + 6 (O) + 2*7 (Cl) = 26 valence electrons.
Determine the central atom. Sulfur is less electronegative than oxygen and chlorine, making it the central atom.
Arrange the atoms around the central sulfur atom. Connect the sulfur atom to the oxygen atom and the two chlorine atoms with single bonds initially.
Distribute the remaining valence electrons to satisfy the octet rule. Start by completing the octets of the outer atoms (oxygen and chlorine). Oxygen will form a double bond with sulfur to satisfy its octet, and each chlorine will have three lone pairs.
Check the formal charges to ensure the most stable structure. The formal charge is calculated as: Formal Charge = (Valence electrons) - (Non-bonding electrons) - 0.5*(Bonding electrons). Adjust the structure if necessary to minimize formal charges, ensuring the most stable Lewis structure.