Question

a lewis structure with placeholder elements is shown. if the formal charge of the central atom is +1, choose the possible identities of the central atom.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the formula for formal charge

The formula for formal charge is \( \text{Formal Charge}=\text{Valence electrons}-\text{Non - bonding electrons}-\frac{1}{2}\times\text{Bonding electrons} \).

Step2: Analyze the Lewis structure

From the Lewis structure, assume the central atom has \( 4 \) non - bonding electrons (\( 2 \) lone pairs) and \( 2 \) bonding pairs (so \( 4 \) bonding electrons). Let the valence electrons of the central atom be \( V \). Given formal charge \(= + 1\).
Using the formula \(+1=V - 4-\frac{1}{2}\times4\).

Step3: Solve for \( V \)

Simplify the right - hand side of the equation: \(+1=V - 4 - 2\), then \(V=+1 + 6=5\).
Elements with \( 5 \) valence electrons are in group \( 15 \) (N, P, As).

Answer:

D. N, P, or As