Unshared electrons
Definition
Unshared electrons, also known as lone pairs or non-bonding electrons, are valence electrons that are not involved in forming bonds with other atoms.
Analogy
Imagine going to a dance party. Some people pair up and dance together (like bonding electrons) while others prefer to dance alone (like unshared electrons).
Related terms
Valence Electrons: These are the outermost electrons in an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Lewis Structure: A diagram that shows the arrangement of valence electrons around atoms in a molecule.
VSEPR Theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion): A theory used to predict the shape of individual molecules based on the extent of electron-pair electrostatic repulsion.
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