Lewis Structures of Molecules: Methane Molecule (CH4)

Introduction

• Continuation of the series on Lewis structures.
• Focus on the methane molecule (CH4).

Valence Electrons

Hydrogen Atom

• Atomic number (Z) = 1.
• Electron configuration: 1s1.
• Contains 1 valence electron.

Carbon Atom

• Atomic number (Z) = 6.
• Electron configuration: 1s2, 2s2, 2p2.
• 4 valence electrons (2 from 2s and 2 from 2p).

Lewis Structures of Atoms

Method

• Write the symbol of the element.
• Distribute the first 4 electrons around the symbol.
• Additional electrons form lone pairs.

Results

• Hydrogen: 1 unpaired electron around the symbol.
• Carbon: 4 unpaired electrons ready to form bonds.

Establishing the Lewis Structure of CH4

Structure

• Pair the unpaired electrons to form covalent bonds.
• Each hydrogen atom shares its unpaired electron with one from carbon.

Validation of Stability Rules

• Hydrogen: Follows the duet rule (surrounded by a pair of electrons).
• Carbon: Follows the octet rule (surrounded by 4 pairs of electrons).

Conclusion

• Lewis structure of the methane molecule completed.
• Verification of stability rules for each atom.
• Encouragement to explore more examples through the associated playlist.
• Advice for reviewing and announcement of upcoming videos.