Ethanoic acid (acetic acid) has the molecular formula and is neutral overall
CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Compound Structure and Properties · Compound Structure and Properties
Problem
Ethanoic acid (acetic acid) has the molecular formula C2H4O2 and is neutral overall.
Respond to the prompts below regarding its bonding and representation.
(a) Calculate the total number of valence electrons that must be represented in a correct Lewis structure for ethanoic acid. Show your work.
(b) Construct one valid Lewis electron-dot structure for ethanoic acid that satisfies the octet rule for all second-period atoms while minimizing formal charge.
(c) Translate the Lewis structure from part (b) into a conventional line-angle (skeletal) structure. Be sure to explicitly include all heteroatoms and indicate the location of the acidic hydrogen.
(d) For each C–O bond in your Lewis structure, state its bond order and justify your answer based on electron distribution in the structure you drew.