Draw the Lewis structure for a bromide monolodide (BrI) molecule.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Lewis Structure for Bromide Monoiodide (BrI):
The Lewis structure for BrI (bromide monoiodide) is:
:I—Br:
Each atom has three lone pairs, and they share one single bond.
Explanation (Approx. 300 Words):
Bromide monoiodide (BrI) is a diatomic interhalogen compound, consisting of one bromine atom and one iodine atom. Both bromine (Br) and iodine (I) are halogens and belong to Group 17 of the periodic table. This means each has 7 valence electrons.
To draw the Lewis structure, follow these steps:
1. Count Total Valence Electrons:
- Bromine (Br): 7 valence electrons
- Iodine (I): 7 valence electrons
- Total = 7 + 7 = 14 valence electrons
2. Determine the Bonding:
Since Br and I are both halogens with similar electronegativities, they will share one pair of electrons to form a single covalent bond, satisfying the octet rule.
3. Distribute Remaining Electrons:
- Draw a single bond between Br and I (uses 2 electrons)
- Remaining electrons: 14 − 2 = 12 electrons
- Distribute the 12 electrons as lone pairs on both atoms to complete their octets:
- Place 3 lone pairs (6 electrons) on Br
- Place 3 lone pairs (6 electrons) on I
Now, both atoms have 8 electrons each (1 bonding pair + 3 lone pairs), satisfying the octet rule.
4. Verify Stability:
- Each atom has a full octet.
- The molecule is non-polar or slightly polar due to similar electronegativities.
- BrI is a covalent compound, not ionic, because both atoms are nonmetals.
Final Lewis Structure Recap:
..
:I — Br:
..
Each atom has:
- 1 bonding pair (Br—I)
- 3 lone pairs (6 electrons)
Thus, the structure is complete and satisfies the octet rule for both atoms.