Drawing Lewis Structures
Rules and Method
1. Draw a skeletal structure ( Write element other
than O and H first, surround it with O atoms, place H
atoms beside O atoms)
2.
Count all of the valence electrons (Dots)
3.
Place a pair of dots between each pair of atoms
4. Complete the octets of the atoms attached to the
central atom
5.
Check if the central atom has an octet
6.
To complete an octet double or triple bonds can be
created, if required
7.
When electrons are leftover, they are always
placed on the central atom in pairs.
Remember: Hydrogen can have maximum 2 electrons
Boron can have maximum 6 electrons in its
valence shell
Beryllium can have maximum 4 electrons