Answer:
(a) 4
(b) 7
(c) 8
(d) 8
(e) 4
Explanation:
In order to draw the Lewis structure, we need to take into account the octet rule: atoms will share electrons to have 8 electrons in their valence shell.
(a) How many valence electrons does Si have initially?
Si has 4 valence electrons. It has to share 4 pairs of electrons to reach the octet.
(b) How many valence electrons does each Cl have initially?
Cl has 7 valence electrons. Each Cl has to share 1 pair of electrons to reach the octet.
(c) How many valence electrons surround the Si in the SiCl₄ molecule?
Si is surrounded by 8 electrons in SiCl₄.
(d) How many valence electrons surround each Cl in the SiCl₄ molecule?
Each Cl is surrounded by 8 electrons in SiCl₄.
(e) How many bonding pairs of electrons are in the SiCl₄ molecule?
There are 4 bonding pairs between Si and Cl.
