question_answer

Which of the following structures is the most preferred and hence of lowest energy for\[S{{O}_{3}}\]? [AIPMT (M) 2011]

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

\[=6-4-\frac{1}{2}\times 4=0\]