Question

draw lewis structure for, $cho_2^{-}$

Explanation:

Step1: Count valence electrons

Carbon has 4 valence electrons, hydrogen has 1, each oxygen has 6, and there is an extra electron due to the - 1 charge. So, $4 + 1+2\times6 + 1=18$ valence electrons.

Step2: Determine central atom

Carbon is the central atom as it can form more bonds than hydrogen and oxygen. Connect atoms with single - bonds. Connect C to H and two O atoms with single - bonds. This uses 3 pairs of electrons (6 electrons).

Step3: Distribute remaining electrons

We have $18 - 6 = 12$ electrons left. Place these electrons as lone - pairs on the oxygen atoms to satisfy the octet rule. One oxygen will have 3 lone - pairs and the other will have 2 lone - pairs and a double - bond with carbon to use all 18 electrons and satisfy the octet rule for all atoms.

Answer:

The Lewis structure has a carbon atom in the center. It is single - bonded to a hydrogen atom and single - bonded to one oxygen atom with 3 lone - pairs and double - bonded to another oxygen atom with 2 lone - pairs. The whole structure has a negative charge.