Resonance Structure in AP Chemistry

Definition

A resonance structure is a way of representing a molecule or ion by showing the delocalization of electrons through multiple possible structures. It occurs when there are two or more valid Lewis structures that can be drawn for a molecule or ion.

Related terms

Delocalized Electrons: Electrons that are not confined to one specific atom but spread out across multiple atoms in a molecule or ion.

Lewis Structure:

A diagram that shows how atoms are connected in a molecule and how valence electrons are distributed among those atoms.

Conjugated System: A series of alternating single and multiple bonds along a chain of atoms, which allows for electron delocalization and gives rise to resonance.