Formal charge and preferred Lewis formulas

The Lewis formula of the chlorate(VII) ion, $\ce{ClO4-}$, can be drawn with four single Cl–O bonds, as shown. What is the formal charge of the chlorine atom in this Lewis formula? A. −1 B. +1 C. +3 D. +7

The cyanate ion, $\ce{NCO-}$, can be represented by two Lewis formulas, X and Y. Which row correctly gives the formal charges on N, C and O in each structure and identifies the more stable structure? A. X: 0, 0, −1; Y: −1, 0, 0; more stable: Y B. X: 0, 0, −1;…

Sulfurous acid has the formula $\ce{H2SO3}$. (i) Using the concept of formal charge, outline why Lewis formula 2 is the more stable, preferred structure. (ii) Write the formula for the conjugate base formed from sulfurous acid.

Which Lewis formula of the sulfate ion, $\ce{SO4^2-}$, is preferred on the basis of formal charges? A. Formula A B. Formula B C. Formula C D. Formula D

Formal charges can be used to choose between possible Lewis structures for the cyanate ion, $\ce{NCO-}$. Which structure is preferred? Non-bonding pairs are not shown; each atom has a complete octet. A. $\ce{[N=C=O]^-}$ B. $\ce{[N#C-O]^-}$ C. $\ce{[N-C#O]^-}$…