Questions: What is the first step in creating a Lewis structure for a molecule? A. counting the number of lone pairs of electrons B. counting the number of electron orbitals C. counting the number of single bonds D. counting the number of valence electrons

What is the first step in creating a Lewis structure for a molecule?
A. counting the number of lone pairs of electrons
B. counting the number of electron orbitals
C. counting the number of single bonds
D. counting the number of valence electrons
Transcript text: What is the first step in creating a Lewis structure for a molecule? A. counting the number of lone pairs of electrons B. counting the number of electron orbitals C. counting the number of single bonds D. counting the number of valence electrons
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Solution

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Solution Steps

Step 1: Understanding Lewis Structures

Lewis structures are diagrams that represent the bonding between atoms of a molecule and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist in the molecule. They are essential for understanding the arrangement of electrons in a molecule.

Step 2: Identifying the First Step

The first step in creating a Lewis structure is to determine the total number of valence electrons available for bonding. This is crucial because it sets the foundation for how the atoms will be arranged and how the electrons will be distributed in the molecule.

Step 3: Counting Valence Electrons

To count the number of valence electrons, you need to consider the group number of each atom in the periodic table. The group number often corresponds to the number of valence electrons for main-group elements.

Final Answer

The first step in creating a Lewis structure for a molecule is: \(\boxed{\text{D. counting the number of valence electrons}}\)

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