Exception to Octet rule (Cl)

[Jamie2002]

When drawing the Lewis Structure for ClO2+, I initially put O as the central atom because it is less electronegative than Cl and I thought that Cl only has one available bond (since it has 7 valence electrons). Does Cl have an expanded octet? Why it is the central atom if it is more electronegative?

[Racquel Fox 2I]

Cl can have an expanded octet because its in the 3rd period on the periodic table, and the 3p elements and lower can have an expanded octet. I believe for this problem Cl would be the central atom for the sake of symmetry where it could have two O on either side that are double bonded, and a lone pair on the Cl which gives you the +1 charge on the Cl.

[Jiwon_Chae_3L]

Cl can have an expanded octet but I think that Cl is the central atom here because it is the least numerous element in the compound, though I am not sure why this takes precedence over the electronegativity rule.

[claire ikemiya_2I]

Yes! All elements below row 3 can expand their octet.

[Jamie2002]

Cl can have an expanded octet because its in the 3rd period on the periodic table, and the 3p elements and lower can have an expanded octet. I believe for this problem Cl would be the central atom for the sake of symmetry where it could have two O on either side that are double bonded, and a lone pair on the Cl which gives you the +1 charge on the Cl.

Thanks, that helped a lot!

[Jamie2002]

Cl can have an expanded octet but I think that Cl is the central atom here because it is the least numerous element in the compound, though I am not sure why this takes precedence over the electronegativity rule.

Thank you!

[Jamie2002]

Yes! All elements below row 3 can expand their octet.

Thank you!