Question

what is the total number of electrons in the correct lewis dot formula of the sulfite ion (so₃²⁻)?
a 8
b 30
c 26
d 24

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate valence electrons of each atom

Sulfur (S) has 6 valence electrons. Oxygen (O) has 6 valence electrons. There is 1 S atom and 3 O atoms in \(SO_{3}^{2 -}\). The charge of the ion is - 2, which means 2 extra electrons.
The formula for total valence electrons is \(V = 6+(3\times6)+2\).

Step2: Calculate the sum

First, calculate \(3\times6 = 18\). Then \(6 + 18+2=26\).

Answer:

C. 26