Convert the Lewis structure below into a skeletal structure

Convert the Lewis structure below into a skeletal structure. H H H H-C-H H-C-H H H + H-C-H H H H-C-C-C-N-C=C-C-H H H H-C-H H H H

The Correct Answer and Explanation is:

To convert the given Lewis structure into a skeletal structure, we need to:

1. Identify the carbon chain and functional groups.
2. Eliminate hydrogen atoms attached to carbons (skeletal structures omit these for simplicity).
3. Represent carbon atoms as vertices (ends or junctions of lines).
4. Show heteroatoms (like N) and any hydrogen attached directly to them.

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✅ Skeletal Structure of the given compound:

iniCopyEditCH3-CH2-CH2-NH-CH=CH-CH3

Or in skeletal form (text-based approximation):

markdownCopyEdit       H
       |
CH3-CH2-CH2-N-CH=CH-CH3

And in true skeletal drawing conventions (where carbon atoms are implied at ends and vertices):

diffCopyEdit       |
---/\/\N/\/

(Note: Each angle or end in the line represents a carbon atom; lines between them are bonds. The nitrogen (N) is explicitly drawn.)

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🔍 Explanation

The given Lewis structure includes many hydrogen atoms and carbon atoms, laid out in a full structure with every bond shown. In organic chemistry, we often simplify such structures using skeletal (line-angle) formulas.

Here’s how we simplify it:

1. Identify the backbone: The molecule has a seven-carbon chain with a nitrogen atom and a double bond. The main carbon skeleton is:
   • CH3–CH2–CH2–N–CH=CH–CH3
2. Simplify hydrogen representation: In skeletal structures:
   • Hydrogen atoms attached to carbon are not shown.
   • Only heteroatoms (like N, O, or halogens) and hydrogens attached to them are shown.
   • Each line end or intersection represents a carbon with enough hydrogen atoms to satisfy the carbon’s valency (usually 4).
3. Locate functional groups:
   • A primary amine group (–NH–) is attached to the fourth carbon.
   • A double bond between two middle carbons indicates alkene functionality.
4. Draw the skeleton:
   • Start from the left with three single-bonded carbon atoms.
   • Attach a nitrogen to the third carbon.
   • The nitrogen connects to a carbon-carbon double bond (alkene).
   • The last carbon (CH3) finishes the chain.

This kind of structural simplification helps chemists quickly understand molecular geometry, reactivity, and functional groups without being distracted by routine hydrogen atoms. It’s standard practice in organic chemistry.