Write the Lewis dot structure of the nitrite ion (NO_(2)^(Θ)) .

1.	Write the Lewis dot structure of the nitrite ion (NO_(2)^(Θ)) .
Answer» Solution :Solution. Step 1. N = 2,5, O = 2,6, - ve charge = 1 . ` therefore ` Total no of valence electrons in `NO_(2)^(-) = 5 + 2xx 6 + 1 = 18 = 9 ` pairs . Step 2. Skeletal structure of `NO_(2)^(-)` will be ON O Step 3. Puttin a single bond (ONE shared PAIR) between O and N and N and O, we have `[O:N:O]^(-)` Step 4. Putting the remaining7 pairs of electrons as lone pairs, 3 on each O and 1 on N (so that octets of O are completed), wehave `H:overset(. .)C:overset(. .)N:` Step 5. As octet of N is not complete, multiple bonding is required . As N is short of only one pair of elecrons . one pair from O should be shifted as shared pair between O and N or N and O. i.e., a double bond should EXIST. THUS, the structure should be (called resonating structures, discussed later).

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