How Do Formal Charge and Resonance Relate in Molecular Structures?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between formal charge and resonance. Formal charge is used to determine the most plausible Lewis structure, while resonance occurs when there are two equally stable structures resulting in electron delocalization. For example, in the case of NOCl, the structure O=N-Cl has formal charges of 0 on all atoms and is more stable than O-N=Cl which has a formal charge of -1 on O and +1 on Cl. Therefore, resonance does not occur in this molecule.
  • #1
kougou
82
0
Hi

Just wondering, what is the relationship between formal charge and resonance?

formal charge is used to determine which lewis structure is most plausible.
Resonance is hybri between two "correct" lewis structure having different electrons distribution but the element position must stay stationary.

Say NOCl. We could have two different formal charges of NOCl. Does it mean it also has a resonance strcuture?
 
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  • #2
Formal charge is used to determine which structure has the lowest energy (greatest stability).

Take NOCl. O=N-Cl has formal charges of 0 on all the atoms. The structure O-N=Cl has formal charges of -1 on O and +1 on Cl. Such a structure would be super unstable (very high energy) that it won't exist. After all, it's much easier to form O=N-Cl, why would we ever want O-N=Cl?

Resonance occurs when we have two structures of similar energy, resulting in electron delocalization.

I hope that answers your question.
 

FAQ: How Do Formal Charge and Resonance Relate in Molecular Structures?

What is resonance?

Resonance is a phenomenon in which a molecule or ion has more than one possible Lewis structure due to the delocalization of electrons.

How does resonance affect formal charge?

Resonance can affect the formal charge of an atom by redistributing electrons among the possible Lewis structures. This can result in a more stable overall charge distribution.

What is formal charge?

Formal charge is a way to determine the distribution of electrons in a molecule or ion. It is calculated by subtracting the number of valence electrons of an atom from the number of lone pair electrons and half the number of bonding electrons.

Can formal charge be negative?

Yes, formal charge can be negative. This indicates that the atom has more electrons than its neutral state.

What is the significance of resonance in chemical bonding?

Resonance is significant in chemical bonding because it helps to explain the stability and reactivity of molecules. It also allows for the representation of different possible structures for a molecule, rather than a single fixed structure.

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