Apentix/AP Chemistry/Unit 2: Molecular and Ionic Compound Structure and Properties/Question
AP Chemistrymediummcq1 pt

How many valence electrons does nitric oxide, NO, contain, and what does that imply for its Lewis structure?

A.16 electrons, so ordinary octets work for both atoms
B.11 electrons, so complete octets on both atoms are impossible
C.10 electrons arranged as a triple bond
D.12 electrons with one lone pair left unshared

Explanation

Core Concept

Nitrogen contributes 5 and oxygen 6, an odd total of 11. An odd count cannot fill two octets, which would need 16 paired electrons, so NO must be a radical carrying at least one unpaired electron. Odd-electron species form a recognized exception class alongside incomplete and expanded octets.

Correct Answer

B11 electrons, so complete octets on both atoms are impossible

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