Resonance Structures

[305416361]

In lecture, we covered resonance structures and discussed how, if a molecule has multiple resonance structures, the one with formal charges closest to 0 is the most stable. Does that also make it the most accurate structure and therefore the correct answer? In other words, should we just draw out the most stable one, or each one of the variations?

[Kyle Thorin]

The Lewis Structure with the formal charge closest to 0 is the most stable and therefore the most accurate. Lavelle will go into more detail in next week's lectures, but you generally want to draw the most stable Lewis Structure.

[Ronak Naik]

Yes that is correct.The correct structure would be the one with the lowest formal charges. The other oones can be drawn to show your reasoning in order to prove that the lowest formal charges are the correct answer. However, the one to report as your final answer should be the one with the lowest formal charges.

[SMIYAZAKI_1B]

The most stable structure would be the best structure you want to use in any sort of questions as others do say. But if the question asks for resonance structures, of course put all of the possible structures and make sure to define which one is most stable and why.

[BCaballero_4F]

Yes, the most stable structure will make it the most accurate so it is the one you should draw.

[005321227]

The most stable structure is that with the lowest formal charge. So while multiple structures may be drawn, there is typically one with the lowest formal charge that is accurate.