2E.21 c

[Ryan Chang 1C]

For SO2Cl2, the solutions say that there are two possible dot structures. One of them has a double bond and 2 lone pairs attached to the oxygen, while the other has a single bond and 3 lone pairs attached to the oxygen. I understand how the reasoning behind both dot structures, but does Dr. Lavelle prefer one over the other? Which one should we put on a test or should we put both.

[Connor Ho 1B]

I believe the better lewis structure is the one that represents the S-O bonding as a double bond. This has a more realistic formal charge compared to the other structure.

[Alan Wu]

Definitely the one with the double bond between S and O. That gives O a formal charge of zero. In general, you should always try giving O or any Group 16 element a double bond and 2 lone pairs if possible.