Electrostatic potential maps use color to portray the calculated electron distribution in a molecule.Atoms that are electron poor and carry a δ+ charge are shown in blue.Atoms that are electron rich and carry a δ- charge are shown in red.Atoms with little or no charge are shown in green.The electrostatic potential map of CH₃Li below should show A)C blue and Li red. B)C blue and Li green. C)C green and Li blue. D)C red and Li blue.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since carbon is relatively electron poor, it will show up as blue on the electrostatic potential map. Lithium, on the other hand, is highly electron rich, and will be shown as red on the map. Therefore, the correct option is D - with carbon in blue and lithium in red.

Electrostatic Potential Maps Use Color to Portray the Calculated Electron