For the resonance hybrid of the nitrite ion, what is the average number of bonds between the nitrogen atom and an oxygen atom?
A)3/2
B)1
C)4/3
D)2
E)5/3

Question

For the resonance hybrid of the nitrite ion,  what is the average number of bonds between the nitrogen atom and an oxygen atom?
A)3/2 
B)1 
C)4/3 
D)2 
E)5/3

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the resonance hybrid of the nitrite ion, each oxygen atom is connected to the nitrogen atom by a single bond in one resonance form and a double bond in the other resonance form. Thus, the average number of bonds between the nitrogen atom and an oxygen atom is (1 + 2)/2 = 3/2. Therefore, the best choice is A.

For the Resonance Hybrid of the Nitrite Ion, What