Which is the correct electron dot structure of N₂O molecule

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$N = N = O$

$: N \equiv \overset{+}{N} - O_{. .}^{. .} :^{-}$

$\ddot{N} = \ddot{N} = \ddot{O}$

$N = N = O :$

answer is B.

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Detailed Solution

: N \equiv \overset{+}{N} - O_{. .}^{. .} :^{-}

Understanding the Correct Electron Dot Structure of N2O Molecule

The electron dot structure, also known as the Lewis dot structure, plays a critical role in understanding the chemical bonding of molecules. In this structure, the valence electrons of atoms are represented as dots around the atomic symbol. The structure helps us visualize how atoms are connected, the type of bonds formed, and whether the atoms satisfy the octet rule, ensuring stable configurations.

How to Draw the N₂O Lewis Dot Structure?

The correct Lewis dot structure for N₂O, also known as nitrous oxide, is:

: N \equiv \overset{+}{N} - O_{. .}^{. .} :^{-}

Let's break this down:

The molecule consists of two nitrogen (N) atoms and one oxygen (O) atom.
Both nitrogen atoms share a triple bond (≡), which means they share three pairs of electrons to satisfy their valency and complete their octet of electrons.
The oxygen atom is bonded to one nitrogen atom via a single bond, and it holds a negative charge (-) due to the extra lone pair of electrons that it receives. This satisfies its octet rule as well.
On the other hand, the nitrogen atom attached to the oxygen atom carries a positive charge (+), which helps balance the overall charge distribution in the molecule.

This structure ensures that all atoms in the molecule have complete octets, and the positive and negative charges are appropriately distributed, making the molecule stable. The N₂O Lewis dot structure clearly reflects the electron sharing between atoms, the formal charges, and the overall stability of the molecule.

Significance of the N₂O Lewis Dot Structure

Drawing the N₂O Lewis dot structure correctly is crucial because it explains the bonding behavior, the charge distribution, and the reactivity of the molecule. Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a colorless, non-flammable gas, and understanding its electron dot structure can help in studying its chemical properties and applications, such as its use as an anesthetic and in the automotive industry.

In summary, the N₂O Lewis dot structure is a vital tool for chemists and students alike to comprehend molecular interactions and predict the behavior of nitrous oxide in various chemical reactions.

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