#Molecular Structures: Lewis Diagrams

Hey there, future AP Chem pro! 👋 Let's dive into Lewis diagrams – your key to visualizing molecules and predicting their behavior. This is a major topic, so let's get it down!

#What are Lewis Diagrams?

Lewis diagrams (or Lewis structures) are visual tools that show how atoms bond together. They display valence electrons and bonds, helping us understand molecular shapes and reactivity. Think of them as the blueprints of molecules! ⚛️

• Based on the octet rule: Atoms want a full valence shell (usually 8 electrons).
• Localized electron model: Electrons stay put (no free roaming).
• Electrons are either:
  • Lone pairs: Electrons around a single atom, not shared.
  • Bonding pairs: Electrons shared between atoms (represented by a dash).

#Drawing Lewis Dot Structures (LDS)

#Ionic LDSs

Ionic LDSs are straightforward because electrons are transferred from one atom to another. 🎉

1. Write the empirical formula to identify elements and their quantities.
2. Draw each atom with its valence electrons.
3. Transfer electrons from the metal to the nonmetal to achieve full octets.
4. Use brackets around each ion with charges outside.

#Example: NaBr

1. Formula: NaBr (one Na and one Br).
2. Na has 1 valence electron; Br has 7. 3. Transfer 1 electron from Na to Br.
3. Show charges: [Na]⁺ [Br]^-

Try it: Draw the LDS for magnesium chloride (MgCl₂). Answer at the end!

#Covalent LDSs

Covalent bonds involve sharing electrons, making their LDSs a bit more involved.

1. Count the **total vale...