which of the following is the correct lewis structure for ethylene (c2h4)?
which of the following is the correct lewis structure for ethylene (c2h4)?
Answer
Explanation:
Step1: Determine valence - electrons
Carbon has 4 valence - electrons and hydrogen has 1 valence - electron. For $C_2H_4$, the total number of valence - electrons is $2\times4 + 4\times1=12$.
Step2: Connect atoms and distribute electrons
The two carbon atoms are connected to each other. Each carbon atom is also connected to two hydrogen atoms. To satisfy the octet rule for carbon atoms, a double bond is formed between the two carbon atoms.
Answer:
The first structure (with a double - bond between the two carbon atoms and each carbon bonded to two hydrogen atoms) is the correct Lewis structure for ethylene ($C_2H_4$).