Question

The illustration below illustrates the configuration of a chemical compound. Which of the following descriptions most accurately characterizes the type of molecule depicted in this image? The image is: [Na] ^+ [OH]^- In the beginning before the OH there are two dots like this: : and it is right in front of the OH. There are also two dots both above and below the O in the OH. The two dots are symmetrical on top of the O and below the O in the OH.

Answer 1

Based on your description, it sounds like you are describing a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) molecule, with specific reference to the Lewis structure of the hydroxide ion (OH⁻).

Here's how to interpret the various components of your description:

1. [Na]⁺: This indicates a sodium ion with a positive charge, which is common as sodium tends to lose one electron to achieve a stable electronic configuration.

2. [OH]⁻: This indicates a hydroxide ion with a negative charge.

3. The dots (:): The two dots in front of the OH likely represent a lone pair of electrons shared between the oxygen and hydrogen within the hydroxide ion.

4. The two dots above and below the O: These dots likely represent the lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom in the hydroxide ion. Oxygen typically has two lone pairs in addition to the bond it forms with hydrogen.

Given these points, the molecule depicted can be characterized as an ionic compound made up of sodium ions and hydroxide ions. Sodium hydroxide is a strong base and is commonly used in various industrial and laboratory processes. The configuration suggests that NaOH is made up of Na⁺ cations and OH⁻ anions held together by ionic bonds. Your description aligns with the Lewis structure for hydroxide, which indicates that this is indeed a molecular compound that has both ionic and covalent characteristics.