Which of the following is the correct Lewis structure for ammonia (NH3)? Note: Hydrogen and nitrogen have one and five valence electrons respectively.

Question

A.
figure A
B.
figure B
C.
figure C
D.
figure D
E.
figure E

Answer 1

To determine the correct Lewis structure for ammonia (NH₃), we need to account for the following:

1. Nitrogen (N) has 5 valence electrons.
2. Each hydrogen (H) has 1 valence electron, and there are three hydrogens in ammonia, contributing a total of 3 electrons.
3. The total number of valence electrons for NH₃ is 5 (from N) + 3 (from 3 H) = 8 valence electrons.

In the Lewis structure for ammonia:

• Nitrogen will be the central atom.
• It will form three single covalent bonds with the three hydrogen atoms, using 3 of its valence electrons.
• This leaves 2 electrons, which will be placed as a lone pair on the nitrogen atom.

Thus, the correct Lewis structure should:

• Show nitrogen at the center with three H atoms bonded to it via single bonds.
• Show a lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen.

Depending on the figures provided (A, B, C, D, E), you would look for one that matches this description. Sadly, I can't see the figures you mentioned, but you can use the description above to identify the correct one. Look for a structure where nitrogen has one lone pair and is bonded to three hydrogen atoms.