Chemistry › Section G · Chemical bonding and molecular geometry › Topic G.3
Lewis symbols and structures
Before you can predict a molecule's shape, its polarity or how it reacts, you need to know where its valence electrons are. Lewis symbols and structures are a simple, reliable way of keeping count, and they need nothing more than the periodic table.
In this topic
- Keeping track of valence electrons
- Lewis symbols for atoms and ions
- Lewis structures and the octet rule
- Double and triple bonds
- A five-step method
- Worked example: phosphorus trichloride and hydronium
- Worked example: phosgene
- Exceptions to the octet rule
- Worked example: sulfur tetrafluoride
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Key takeaways
This topic is part of Wuanberri Pro. Checking your access…