What does a Lewis structure represent?

A Lewis structure is a diagram that represents the bonding between atoms in a molecule and also shows the lone pairs of electrons that may exist. It provides a way to visualize both the types of bonds (single, double, or triple) connecting atoms and the presence of lone pairs, which are crucial for determining the molecule's geometry and reactivity.

In a Lewis structure, dots are used to represent valence electrons, which are the electrons involved in bonding. Lines are used to depict bonds between atoms. This visual representation allows chemists to predict molecular shape, polarity, and potential chemical behavior based on the arrangement of electrons.

Understanding Lewis structures is fundamental in the study of chemical bonding because they help clarify how atoms interact and bond with one another, which is vital for grasping larger concepts in chemistry such as molecular geometry and reactivity patterns.