Structural Formula
Structural formulas show every atom and every bond, as well as the unshared electron pairs
found in a molecule. Atoms are represented by their atomic symbol. Bonds are represented
by solid black lines. A single black line or dash represents 2 shared electrons in a single
covalent bond. Two black lines represent 4 shared electrons in a double covalent bond. Three
black lines represent 6 shared electrons in a triple covalent bond. An unshared electron pair
is represented by two dots paired together adjacent to the atomic symbol.
In the following examples, including structural
formulas of water (H2O), ammonia (NH3), and sulfuric acid (H2SO4), unshared electron pairs are represented by red dots.
Examples
| Structural formula of Water - H2O
|
| Structural formula of Ammonia - NH3
|
| Structural formula of Sulfuric Acid - H2SO4
|
Created and maintained by: Dr. Anna Cavinato anna.cavinato@eou.edu
and Dr. David Camp
.
All Material Copyright Eastern ChemWeb, Eastern Oregon University, 2003.
