Determine the number of nonbonding electron pairs on the central atom of NOCl (lewis structure)

Question

Determine the number of nonbonding electron pairs on the central atom of NOCl (lewis structure)

A)0

B)1

C)2

D)4

E)6

Answer 1

Cannot easily draw the dot structure on this platform, but will describe it and hopefully you can draw it.

NOCl - total number of valence electrons = 5 + 6 + 7 = 18 valence electrons

Central atom is N (least electronegative).

Attach one O atom and attach one Cl atom

In order to use all 18 valence electrons, place 3 lone pairs around the O atom, 3 lone pairs around the Cl atom, and the remaining 2 electrons (1 lone pair) on the N atom.

N will not have an octet so move one lone pair from the O atom to form a double bond between N atom and the O atom

Cl - N = O

Answer to the question is (B) 1 nonbonding electron pair on the central atom.