How many equivalent resonance structures can be drawn for the molecule of SO₃ without having to violate the octet rule on the sulfur atom? A)5 B)2 C)1 D)4 E)3

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The molecule SO₃, when interpreted correctly as SO3, has three equivalent resonance structures. These structures involve the sulfur atom double-bonded to each of the three oxygen atoms in turn, with the other two oxygens carrying a negative charge and the sulfur atom having a formal positive charge. This arrangement allows for the depiction of the delocalized pi electrons among the sulfur and oxygen atoms without violating the octet rule for sulfur.

How Many Equivalent Resonance Structures Can Be Drawn for the Molecule