what is the correct lewis dot structure for ammonia nh3
what is the correct lewis dot structure for ammonia nh3
Answer
Answer:
The second option (the one with the nitrogen - hydrogen bonds and a lone pair on nitrogen represented as two dots above the nitrogen atom: H - N - H with a lone pair on N).
Explanation:
Step1: Determine valence electrons
N has 5 valence electrons, H has 1 valence electron. For NH3, total valence electrons = 5+(3×1)=8.
Step2: Place central atom
N is the central atom as it is more electronegative than H.
Step3: Form bonds
Each H forms a single bond with N, using 6 electrons in 3 N - H bonds.
Step4: Add remaining electrons
2 electrons are left which form a lone - pair on the N atom. The correct Lewis dot structure shows N with 3 single bonds to H and a lone pair of electrons on N.