Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Example:

NOCl


i understand why N is the centre atom ( lowest # of elements involves in molecule/ or electropositive ) gets the centre atom spot

im not showing anything but the bonds, i understand there are some valence electrons missing from the diagram but

my question is why does it go

O=N-Cl

instead of

O-N=Cl

how can i make sure i always get the right diagram when it could go either way
( for this specific question Cl or O could share with N and it still works out, but apparently O=N-Cl
is how it is meant to look)

can i think of it as, the lesser share as in ( n 5 valence electrons o 6 valence electrons ) so those guys share
or can i think of it as , the left atom shares with the centre


thanks for helping !

Hi,

This forum is intended for students, parents, and teachers working on K-12 science projects. If your question is related to a science project, please post some details such as your hypothesis, research question or experimental plan. If you are looking for help with homework or general science discussions there are other sites that should be able to answer your question.

A. Norman