Finding Resonance Structures

Key Questions

  • Answer:

    They usually just are.

    Explanation:

    Electrons are delocalized within the molecule and through this process the molecule gains extra stability.

    In fact, elements that could be unstable at first are made stable by their resonance structures. For example, Ozone with both of its opposite charges creates a neutral molecule and through resonance it becomes a stable molecule.

  • Answer:

    Because it helps to explain and rationalize experiment; if you like it explains reality.

    Explanation:

    Ozone is a bent molecule. That's the experimental fact. A Lewis structure of #O=stackrel(+)O-O^-# in which there are 3 regions of electron-density around the central atom explains this geometry. It also explains the trigonal planar geometry of #CO_3^(2-)#. The benzene molecule, #C_6H_6#, crops up persistently in organic chemistry. It is reactive under certain circusmtances, but not as reactive and not reactive in the same way as an olefin or an alkyne.

    Our ideas of resonance can help rationalize the observed reactivity. The idea of #6# #pi# electrons delocalized around a 6-membered ring can be extended to inorganic chemistry. Borazine, #B_3N_3H_3#, a benzene analogue, is isostructural and isoelectronic with benzene, and has similar aromatic chemistry.

Questions