Lesson Practice 5. Sute the steges to draw Lewis structures in your own words.

To draw Lewis structures, follow these steps: 1. **Count Valence Electrons**: Determine the total number of valence electrons for all atoms in the molecule. This can be done by looking at the periodic table and noting the group number of each element. 2. **Identify the Central Atom**: Choose the central atom, which is usually the least electronegative element (excluding hydrogen). This atom will be bonded to the other atoms. 3. **Arrange Atoms**: Place the other atoms around the central atom. Connect the atoms with single bonds initially. 4. **Distribute Remaining Electrons**: After forming single bonds, distribute the remaining valence electrons to complete the octets of the surrounding atoms. Start with the outer atoms first. 5. **Form Double or Triple Bonds if Necessary**: If any atom (especially the central atom) does not have a complete octet after distributing the electrons, consider forming double or triple bonds by sharing pairs of electrons. 6. **Check for Octet Rule**: Ensure that all atoms (except hydrogen, which only needs 2 electrons) have a complete octet. Adjust bonds as necessary. 7. **Final Structure**: Once all atoms have a complete octet and the total number of electrons matches the initial count, the Lewis structure is complete. 8. **Consider Formal Charges**: Optionally, calculate the formal charges for each atom to ensure the most stable structure is represented. Aim for the lowest possible formal charges on the atoms. By following these steps, you can systematically draw Lewis structures for various molecules.