Bonds

[SarahSteffen_LEC4]

When drawing Lewis Structures, how do we know when to use a double bond or triple bond vs just a single bond?

[April Pazos 3D]

Drawing lewis structures is really just trial and error. If you draw a full lewis structure and realize you have too many electrons surrounding the elements, then a double bond has to be used. If you still have too many electrons after you have done a double bond, then a triple bond needs to be used.

[Aliya Jain 2B]

Also, when you're deciding whether to use single, double, or triple bonds, make sure that the elements in the first or second period are observing the octet rule!

[Siya Shah 1J]

Also, often you will be shifting around with the different types of bonds when drawing the various resonance structures for a compound. This usually entails removing double or triple bonds and turning them into single bonds and adding formal charges.

[Chetas Holagunda 3H]

The type of bond depends on the formal charge of each of the elements in the compound. The goal is to get the least magnitude of formal charges.