Draw and reference the Lewis structure for ammonia, NH3,
How many total valence electrons are counted in the Lewis structure for ammonia?
The correct answer and explanation is :
The Lewis structure for ammonia (NH₃) consists of a nitrogen (N) atom covalently bonded to three hydrogen (H) atoms, with a lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen. Here’s the step-by-step process to determine the Lewis structure:
- Count Valence Electrons:
- Nitrogen (N) has 5 valence electrons.
- Each hydrogen (H) has 1 valence electron, and since there are three hydrogens, we have 3 × 1 = 3 valence electrons.
- Total valence electrons = 5 (from N) + 3 (from H) = 8.
- Determine the Central Atom:
- Nitrogen is less electronegative than hydrogen, so it becomes the central atom.
- Form Bonds:
- Each hydrogen forms a single bond with nitrogen, using up 6 electrons (3 bonds × 2 electrons per bond).
- Distribute Remaining Electrons:
- The remaining 2 electrons form a lone pair on nitrogen.
Thus, the final Lewis structure of NH₃ has nitrogen at the center, single bonds connecting to three hydrogen atoms, and a lone pair of electrons on nitrogen.
Answer:
Total valence electrons counted in the Lewis structure for ammonia (NH₃) = 8.
Explanation:
The Lewis structure of NH₃ follows the octet rule, ensuring that nitrogen has eight electrons in its valence shell (including its lone pair and bonding electrons). The molecular shape of NH₃ is trigonal pyramidal, influenced by the lone pair, which repels the bonding pairs, making the bond angles slightly less than the ideal 109.5° (approximately 107° in NH₃). The lone pair contributes to the polarity of NH₃, making it a polar molecule with a partial negative charge on nitrogen and partial positive charges on hydrogen. This polarity allows NH₃ to form hydrogen bonds, making it highly soluble in water. The correct count of 8 valence electrons ensures that the structure is valid and follows the octet rule properly.
Here is the Lewis structure for ammonia (NH₃). The nitrogen atom (N) is at the center, forming three single bonds with hydrogen (H) atoms. The lone pair on nitrogen is represented above it. This structure accounts for all 8 valence electrons in NH₃, ensuring that nitrogen follows the octet rule while hydrogen completes its duet rule.