3.53

[Maldonado3K]

For this problem, we are asked to identify the structure with the lowest energy. Does this mean the structure that has formal charges closest to zero?

[Bree Perkins 1E]

Yes, If I am not mistaken that is what the problem is asking. The closest one to 0 is more stable, so it is less likely to be very reactive.

[Isabel Jabara 1C]

Yes. The overall formal charge for all of them are zero, so you have to look at the formal charges for each individual atom. Then choose the one that has formal charges closest to zero because that one is the most stable.

[Nandhini_2K]

Yes, that is correct. The formal charge as close to zero as possible and is not canceling out each other.

[105012653 1F]

Yes the closest to stable would mean zero formal charge