In the vapor phase, BeCl₂ exists as a discrete molecule. (b) What other resonance structures are possible that satisfy the octet rule?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of resonance structures: Resonance structures are different Lewis structures for the same molecule that show different possible arrangements of electrons. They are used to represent molecules where the electrons are delocalized.
2. Identify the central atom and its valence electrons: Beryllium (Be) is the central atom in BeCl2. Beryllium has 2 valence electrons.
3. Consider the octet rule: The octet rule states that atoms tend to form bonds until they are surrounded by eight electrons. Chlorine (Cl) has 7 valence electrons and needs one more to complete its octet.
4. Draw the initial Lewis structure: Start by drawing a structure where Be is bonded to two Cl atoms with single bonds. This uses up all of Be's valence electrons and gives each Cl atom an octet.
5. Explore possible resonance structures: Since BeCl2 is a linear molecule and Be does not typically follow the octet rule due to its electron deficiency, consider if any double bonds or electron shifts could create alternative resonance structures while still satisfying the octet rule for Cl.

Key Concepts

Resonance Structures

Resonance structures are different ways of drawing the same molecule that illustrate the delocalization of electrons. They are used to represent molecules where a single Lewis structure cannot adequately depict the electron distribution. In the case of BeCl2, resonance structures can help visualize how the electrons are shared among the chlorine atoms and the beryllium atom, contributing to a more accurate depiction of the molecule's bonding.

Octet Rule

The octet rule is a chemical guideline stating that atoms tend to bond in such a way that they each have eight electrons in their valence shell, achieving a stable electron configuration similar to that of noble gases. This rule is particularly relevant for main group elements and helps predict the bonding behavior of atoms in molecules. In the context of BeCl2, understanding the octet rule is essential for determining the possible resonance structures that satisfy this requirement.

Molecular Geometry

Molecular geometry refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within a molecule. It is influenced by the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs of electrons around the central atom, which can affect the molecule's stability and reactivity. For BeCl2, recognizing its linear geometry helps in visualizing how resonance structures can be formed while still adhering to the octet rule and maintaining the overall molecular shape.