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Which diagram correctly shows the bonding in the ammonium ion, NH₄⁺? key N electron X H electron - CIE - A-Level Chemistry - Question 2 - 2011 - Paper 1
Question 2
Which diagram correctly shows the bonding in the ammonium ion, NH₄⁺? key N electron X H electron
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which diagram correctly shows the bonding in the ammonium ion, NH₄⁺? key N electron X H electron - CIE - A-Level Chemistry - Question 2 - 2011 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the correct diagram showing bonding in NH₄⁺
Answer
The ammonium ion, NH₄⁺, consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms. Each hydrogen atom contributes one electron, and nitrogen contributes three electrons, making a total of eight electrons involved. In this bonding structure, it is essential to represent the nitrogen atom correctly with its lone pair of electrons and the bonds formed with hydrogen atoms.
After analyzing the diagrams provided (A, B, C, D), the correct representation can be found in diagram C. In this diagram:
- The nitrogen (represented by N) has a lone pair of electrons and forms four single bonds with four hydrogen atoms (represented by the H atoms).
- The bonding is illustrated correctly, with the lone pair of electrons shown and all hydrogen atoms connected adequately to the nitrogen atom, indicating that the bonding fits the electron sharing model essential for the ammonium ion.