Question

Thiocyanate, SCN-1 (C in the center), has how many valid resonance structures?

a) 1
b) 2
c) 3
d) 4

Answer 1

The thiocyanate ion, SCN-1, has 3 valid resonance structures: NCS, CNS, and CSN.

Step-by-step explanation:

The thiocyanate ion, SCN-1, has 3 valid resonance structures. Resonance structures are different arrangements of atoms that can be represented by Lewis structures. In the case of thiocyanate, the central carbon atom can form double bonds with either the nitrogen or sulfur atom, resulting in three possible resonance structures: NCS, CNS, and CSN. These different arrangements of atoms contribute to the overall stability of the molecule.