Select the Lewis structure for XeO₂F₂ that correctly minimizes formal charges.

Question

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To minimize the formal charges, we need to distribute the electrons in a way that gives each atom a formal charge as close to zero as possible. In the Lewis structure for XeO₂F₂, we can see that multiple resonance structures can be drawn due to the presence of double bonds between multiple atoms. In the given options, choice B is the best one as it shows the correct distribution of electrons in a way that minimizes the formal charges on all atoms. This structure has formal charges of zero on all the atoms except for the sulfur atoms which have a formal charge of -1. The other options show incorrect distributions of electrons leading to high formal charges on some atoms.

Select the Lewis Structure for XeO2F2 That Correctly Minimizes Formal

Select the Lewis Structure for XeO₂F₂ That Correctly Minimizes Formal