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Ch.7 - Periodic Properties of the Elements
Chapter 7, Problem 94b

(b) Why does O3- not exist?

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Ozone Structure

Ozone (O3) consists of three oxygen atoms arranged in a bent molecular geometry. This structure allows for resonance, where the double bond between the oxygen atoms can shift, stabilizing the molecule. However, when considering the O3- ion, the addition of an extra electron disrupts this balance, leading to instability.
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Electron Configuration and Stability

The stability of a molecule is heavily influenced by its electron configuration. Ozone has a specific arrangement of electrons that allows it to exist in a stable state. The addition of an extra electron to form O3- would create an unfavorable electron-electron repulsion, making the ion less stable and likely to decompose.
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Ionic vs. Molecular Species

Ozone is a molecular species, meaning it is formed by covalent bonds between atoms. In contrast, O3- would imply an ionic character due to the extra electron. The transition from a stable molecular form to an unstable ionic form is energetically unfavorable, which contributes to the non-existence of O3-.
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