Q
QuestionChemistry

What is the correct Lewis structure for hypochlorous acid, HOCl? Hint: Oxygen is the central atom. A. :H-O-C: B. :H-O-CH-o-d:
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Answer

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Step 1
I'll solve this step-by-step using Lewis structure rules:

Step 2
: Determine the total number of valence electrons

- Total valence electrons: $$1 + 6 + 7 = 14$$ valence electrons
- Hydrogen (H): 1 valence electron - Oxygen (O): 6 valence electrons - Chlorine (Cl): 7 valence electrons

Final Answer

The correct Lewis structure is \text{H} - \text{O}:^{2 -} - \text{Cl}:^{+}, with lone pairs on oxygen and chlorine.