Resonance structures can be written for .

Options

A. `O_(3)`
B. `NH_(3)`
C. `CH_(4)`
D. `H_(2)O`

Answer

To determine which molecules can exhibit resonance structures, we need to follow a systematic approach. Here’s the step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand Resonance
Resonance occurs when a molecule can be represented by two or more valid Lewis structures. These structures differ only in the placement of electrons, not in the arrangement of atoms.

**Hint:** Look for molecules that have multiple bonds (double or triple bonds) and lone pairs of electrons.

### Step 2: Identify the Criteria for Resonance
For a molecule to have resonance structures, it must:
- Have multiple bonds (double or triple bonds).
- Have lone pairs that can participate in bonding.
- Follow the octet rule for main group elements.

**Hint:** Remember that resonance structures must maintain the same arrangement of atoms.

### Step 3: Analyze Examples
Let’s analyze a few examples:

1. **Ozone (O3)**:
- Ozone has a structure with a double bond and a coordinate bond. It can be represented by two resonance structures where the double bond shifts between the two oxygen atoms.
- **Resonance Structures**: Yes, O3 has resonance structures.

2. **Ammonia (NH3)**:
- Ammonia has a tetrahedral shape with no double or triple bonds. It has one lone pair but cannot shift bonds.
- **Resonance Structures**: No, NH3 does not have resonance structures.

3. **Methane (CH4)**:
- Methane also has a tetrahedral geometry with only single bonds and no lone pairs.
- **Resonance Structures**: No, CH4 does not have resonance structures.

4. **Water (H2O)**:
- Water has two lone pairs and single bonds, but it lacks multiple bonds.
- **Resonance Structures**: No, H2O does not have resonance structures.

### Step 4: Conclusion
From the analysis, we conclude that only molecules with multiple bonds can exhibit resonance. Among the examples discussed, only ozone (O3) can be represented by resonance structures.

**Final Answer:** Resonance structures can be written for O3 (ozone).