Lewis Structure

Definition

A Lewis structure is a graphical representation used to visualize the arrangement of valence electrons around individual atoms within molecules or ions.

Related terms

Valence Electrons:

The outermost electrons on an atom that participate in chemical bonding.

Covalent Bonding: A type of chemical bond formed when pairs of electrons are shared between atoms.

Octet Rule:

The principle stating that bonded atoms share their eight outermost electrons.