Question

Select the Lewis structure in which formal charges are minimized for the periodate anion IO(4)-.

a. O-I=O-O-O
b. O=I-O-O-O
c. O-I=O-O-
d. O-I(-O)3

Answer 1

The best Lewis structure for the periodate anion IO4- is likely option (d) O-I(-O)3, as it minimizes formal charges across the molecule and places negative charges on the more electronegative oxygen atoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks to select the Lewis structure for the periodate anion IO4- that minimizes formal charges. To determine the correct Lewis structure, we need to follow a few rules:

1. Lewis structures are preferable when adjacent formal charges are zero or of the opposite sign.
2. Among several Lewis structures with similar distributions of formal charges, the one with negative formal charges on the more electronegative atoms is preferable.

In general, the best Lewis structure for a molecule or ion will spread the formal charges across the molecule evenly and place negative charges on the more electronegative atoms whenever possible.

For periodate IO4-, option (d) O-I(-O)3 is likely the best representation, as it distributes negative charges across the more electronegative oxygen atoms. This structure allows iodine to maintain a positive formal charge, which is balanced by negative formal charges on some of the oxygen atoms.