A student is attempting to draw several resonance structures for CO₂. Which of the following is allowed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Resonance structures involve the movement of electrons within a molecule while maintaining the connectivity of the nuclei. Therefore, changing the connectivity of the nuclei (A) or the O-O bond (D) is not allowed. Changing the compound to CO and O₂ gases (C) is not a valid resonance structure as it changes the chemical identity of the molecule. Moving only the valence electrons (B) while maintaining the connectivity of the nuclei is allowed in resonance structures.

A Student Is Attempting to Draw Several Resonance Structures for CO2

A Student Is Attempting to Draw Several Resonance Structures for CO₂