CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Compound Structure and Properties · Compound Structure and Properties
Problem
Acetaldehyde, CH₃CHO(l), is an intermediate in the oxidation of ethanol. An analyst must prepare a Lewis diagram for the molecule before carrying out computational studies.
(a) Compute the total number of valence electrons present in one molecule of CH₃CHO.
(b) Devise a reasonable skeletal framework for the atoms that is consistent with known bonding patterns of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Justify your arrangement.
(c) Using your framework from part (b), distribute electrons to generate a complete Lewis diagram that satisfies the octet rule wherever applicable. Clearly indicate all lone pairs and multiple bonds.
(d) Identify every atom that carries a non-zero formal charge in your final structure and provide those charges. Explain how the placement of any double bond(s) helps minimize formal charges while maintaining octet satisfaction.