question_answer

Which of the following structures is the most preferred and hence of lowest energy for \[S{{O}_{3}}\]?

A)                                          

B)  

C)                                            

D)  

Correct Answer: D

Solution :

Formal charges help in the selection of the lowest energy structure from a number of possible Lewis structures for a given species. Generally the lowest energy structure is the one with the smallest formal charges on the atoms. Formal charge on an atom: = total no. of valence electrons-non-bonding electrons \[-\frac{1}{2}\times \] bonding electrons. For Lewis structure of \[S{{O}_{3}}\] Formal charge on S atom \[=6-0-\frac{1}{2}\times 12=0\] Formal charge on three O atoms \[=6-4-\frac{1}{2}\times 4=0\]