drawing Lewis structures [ENDORSED]

[An Dang 3F]

When we are trying to draw Lewis Structures, why is it that the lowest ionization element goes into the center such as the Lewis structure for sulfate?

[Sammy Thatipelli 1B]

To be honest, I think its a rule that is just set and there is not much of a strict reasoning behind it. I think that in the case of sulfate, having the S in the center allows for symmetry for the Lewis structure, as it would be difficult is putting 4 oxygens in the center. So, symmetry is a valid reasoning I believe for having the element with lowest ionization energy in the center, especially in this circumstance.

[RussellChin_3A]

Like Sammy said, putting the atom with lowest ionization energy makes it easier to draw a symmetrical molecule, but I also I think since the atom in the center has the lowest ionization energy of all atoms in the molecule, it would be easier for that electron to share the e- because there is a smaller amount of ionization energy that is needed to be over come in order for that e- to be shared.