Question

Write electron dot structure of ethane molecule $\left({\mathrm{C}}_2{\mathrm{H}}_6\right)$

Answer 1

Electron dot structure

• Electron dot structure is also known as Lewis structure, Lewis dot structure, Lewis dot formula, or Lewis electron-dot formula.
• It is a way of representing atoms, ions, or molecules by showing the outermost shell electrons as dots surrounding the element symbol.
• The line between elements represents the bonded electrons.
• Dots represent lone pair of electrons.

Step to draw electron dot structure

• Write down the chemical symbol of the element.
• Find the number of valence electrons.
• Draw the valence electrons as dots near the element.

Electron dot structure of ethane molecule $\left(C_2{H}_6\right)$

• The number of valence electrons in a carbon atom is $4$
• The number of valence electrons in a hydrogen atom is $1$
• Each carbon atom is surrounded by $3$hydrogen atoms.
• Here, both carbon and hydrogen atom shares their $1$valence electron.
• Therefore, the electron dot structure of the ethane molecule is: