Lewis Structures

[Michael Du 1E]

When a problem asks to draw the lewis structure of a molecule, are we expected to draw the one with the lowest energy or only when the problem says to?

[gabbymaraziti]

I think we're supposed to draw the one that is the most stable, i.e. lowest formal charges for each atom (I think that's what you're referring to by 'lowest energy').

[gferg21]

The most stable configuration of a molecule is the one with the lowest formal charge, so I would say to always draw the the most stable unless told otherwise.

[Ixcel Guzman 4A]

I think its the one with the lowest energy and ive been hearing that we also have to draw all the resonance structures but I remember Lavelle saying that he would take any structure.

[Vivianvelazquez_1J]

When we are asked to draw a Lewis structure of a molecule the best thing to do is usually draw the structure with the lowest formal change. Always drawing the structure that is the most stable. In the Dino Nuggets review session they said the most stable is always the best.

[Tyler Angtuaco 1G]

It's probably safer to write all of the resonance structures unless it specifically states the one with the lowest energy.

[805422680]

The one with the lowest energy will always be correct so it safer to draw that and all it’s resonant structures.

[kristi le 2F]

Also, you can check which Lewis structure has the lowest energy by checking the formal charges. You want the most neutral/nonzero charges as possible.

[Justin Quan 4I]

When we draw lewis structures, should we always assume to draw the resonance structures even if the problem didn't say to do so?

[Caitlin Ciardelli 3E]

In one of the review sessions, they mentioned that you should always aim to draw the Lewis Structure with the lowest energy. You only need to draw the resonance structures if the questions asks for them.