Lewis structures

Definition

Lewis structures are visual representations of the valence electrons in molecules, showing how atoms are bonded together and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist. They serve as a foundational tool in organic chemistry for understanding molecular geometry, bonding, and reactivity.

Analogy

Imagine assembling a model kit where each piece represents an atom, and connectors represent the bonds between them. The Lewis structure is like the instruction manual for building the model, showing which pieces connect together and where extra pieces (lone pairs) should be placed to complete the structure accurately.

Related terms

Valence Electrons: The electrons in an atom's outermost shell, which are involved in forming chemical bonds.

Covalent Bond: A type of chemical bond where two atoms share a pair of valence electrons to achieve stability.

Molecular Geometry: The three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within a molecule, determined by the patterns of bonding and nonbonding electron pairs revealed in Lewis structures