formal charges

[Fatima Valenzuela 3k]

In homework question we have to draw lewis structures of the polyatomic ions and assign formal charges. How do I draw formal charges and what is it? Where would they go in the structure? Can anyone give me an example please.

[Evangelina_0ca]

Hello!

I believe you are talking about Q #2. So a formal charge is the difference between the valence electron of that atom in the elemental state and the number of electrons assigned to that atoms in the lewis structure. Now in order to find it you need to draw a lewis structure by counting the #e- that both N and H have… then, you are going to distribute them and make sure that all of them are in the “happy state.” Then in order to calculate the formal charge you are going to use the formulas FC= V-(L+s/2). Last but not least, you are just going to assigned that to the Lewis structure! I will attach an image here! Hope this helps!