Using Lewis symbols and Lewis structures, make a sketch of the formation of NCl₃ from N and Cl atoms, showing valence-shell electrons. (b) How many bonds Cl has to make in order to achieve an octet?

Key Concepts

Lewis Symbols

Lewis symbols represent the valence electrons of an atom as dots surrounding the element's symbol. Each dot corresponds to a valence electron, which are the electrons involved in chemical bonding. This visual representation helps in understanding how atoms interact and bond with each other, particularly in covalent compounds.

Lewis Structures

Lewis structures are diagrams that depict the arrangement of atoms and the distribution of valence electrons in a molecule. They illustrate how atoms are bonded together and show lone pairs of electrons. By using these structures, one can predict the molecular geometry and the types of bonds formed, which is essential for understanding the formation of compounds like NCl3.

Octet Rule

The octet rule states that atoms tend to form bonds 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. In the case of chlorine in NCl3, each Cl atom needs to form one bond with nitrogen to complete its octet, as it starts with seven valence electrons.